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The Heart of Bath #3
Starting Again
A heart-warming romance set in Regency Bath...
Marianne Pembroke has been sent to Bath by her parents to stay with her aunt, the formidable Lady Barrington, for one purpose only – to find a new husband. Widowed tragically young, Marianne’s circumstances mean that she must be successful in the marriage market or suffer the indignity of becoming a governess. But Marianne is determined to remain unwed, for she fears her heart bears so many scars she will never be able to love again.
Edmund Templeton is the heir to his father’s title and fortune. His parents think it is high time he settled down and made a suitable marriage, but he is in no hurry to give up his life of leisure. For where would be the fun in that?
Once Marianne and Edmund discover what they have in common – a wish not to marry – they become firm friends, a situation they are both sure they are perfectly content with. Then events take a dramatic turn with a sudden illness, a duel and the re-emergence of an old enemy of the Templeton family who is not quite what he seems...
Will love save the day?
Marianne Pembroke has been sent to Bath by her parents to stay with her aunt, the formidable Lady Barrington, for one purpose only – to find a new husband. Widowed tragically young, Marianne’s circumstances mean that she must be successful in the marriage market or suffer the indignity of becoming a governess. But Marianne is determined to remain unwed, for she fears her heart bears so many scars she will never be able to love again.
Edmund Templeton is the heir to his father’s title and fortune. His parents think it is high time he settled down and made a suitable marriage, but he is in no hurry to give up his life of leisure. For where would be the fun in that?
Once Marianne and Edmund discover what they have in common – a wish not to marry – they become firm friends, a situation they are both sure they are perfectly content with. Then events take a dramatic turn with a sudden illness, a duel and the re-emergence of an old enemy of the Templeton family who is not quite what he seems...
Will love save the day?
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 21, 2024
21 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Worstall
26 books185 followersAn avid reader, Jenny inherited the love of a good story from her Irish grandmother.
She writes romantic comedies that reflect both her love of music and a tendency not to take life too seriously.
Jenny is a member of the Society of Authors, the Romantic Novelists’ Association, and the Society of Women Writers and Journalists.
The three books in her Sweet Regency Romance series THE HEART OF BATH were all published in 2024 by Dragonblade Publishing.
She writes romantic comedies that reflect both her love of music and a tendency not to take life too seriously.
Jenny is a member of the Society of Authors, the Romantic Novelists’ Association, and the Society of Women Writers and Journalists.
The three books in her Sweet Regency Romance series THE HEART OF BATH were all published in 2024 by Dragonblade Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
June 6, 2025
Edmond Templeton is a carefree young man and heir to his father's title and fortune. Taking no interest in assisting his father in day to day business, he spends his nights carousing with his friends and sleeping most of the day. Marianne Pembrook is a widow staying with her aunt in Bath. Her family is pushing for her to remarry, but she's still mourning her loss. Edmond and Marianne make a pack to be friends and hold off their families from matchmaking, but an unexpected kiss changes their thinking.
Unfortunately, Edmond's immaturity stands against any commitment.
A clean romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Unfortunately, Edmond's immaturity stands against any commitment.
A clean romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
March 16, 2025
This is an utterly delightful Regency romance that will sweep you away to the charming streets of Bath. Marianne Pembroke is a refreshingly independent heroine, determined to avoid the confines of marriage after the tragic loss of her first love. Her resolve to remain unwed is both poignant and empowering, as she navigates the pressure from her parents to find a new husband. Her Aunt Lady Barrington may mean well, but Marianne’s determination to chart her own path in a world where marriage is paramount is truly inspiring.
Edmund Templeton, is the dashing heir to a noble title. With his carefree attitude toward life and marriage, Edmund is the perfect counterpart to Marianne’s cautious, closed-off heart. Their growing friendship is built on mutual understanding, as both wish to avoid the constraints of matrimony. The witty banter, shared confidences, and undeniable chemistry between them are delightful to witness as they form a bond that, at first, seems unshakable.
Yet, as the story unfolds, there are unexpected twists from illness to the return of a mysterious enemy, taking you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The stakes rise, and Marianne and Edmund are faced with challenges that force them to confront their feelings, their pasts, and their futures.
This novel beautifully blends heartwarming romance with a touch of suspense and intrigue that left me turning the pages to discover how Marianne and Edmund’s story will unfold. An enjoyable read!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Edmund Templeton, is the dashing heir to a noble title. With his carefree attitude toward life and marriage, Edmund is the perfect counterpart to Marianne’s cautious, closed-off heart. Their growing friendship is built on mutual understanding, as both wish to avoid the constraints of matrimony. The witty banter, shared confidences, and undeniable chemistry between them are delightful to witness as they form a bond that, at first, seems unshakable.
Yet, as the story unfolds, there are unexpected twists from illness to the return of a mysterious enemy, taking you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The stakes rise, and Marianne and Edmund are faced with challenges that force them to confront their feelings, their pasts, and their futures.
This novel beautifully blends heartwarming romance with a touch of suspense and intrigue that left me turning the pages to discover how Marianne and Edmund’s story will unfold. An enjoyable read!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 11, 2024
3.5 Stars
Widow Marianne Pembroke has been sent to Bath by her parents to stay with her aunt, the formidable Lady Barrington, for one purpose only - to find a new husband. Edmund Templeton is the heir to his father's title and fortune. His parents think it is high time he settled down and made a suitable marriage, but he is in no hurry to give up his life of leisure. Once Marianne and Edmund discover what they have in common - a wish not to marry - they become firm friends, a situation they are both sure they are perfectly content with.
The third book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. An interesting book which I enjoyed but I’m on the fence about as I didn’t particularly like either Edmund nor Marianne they were a bit too two dimensional for me & I also felt Edmund was immature. I also didn’t feel much chemistry between them. It was a light, often amusing story with misunderstandings
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Widow Marianne Pembroke has been sent to Bath by her parents to stay with her aunt, the formidable Lady Barrington, for one purpose only - to find a new husband. Edmund Templeton is the heir to his father's title and fortune. His parents think it is high time he settled down and made a suitable marriage, but he is in no hurry to give up his life of leisure. Once Marianne and Edmund discover what they have in common - a wish not to marry - they become firm friends, a situation they are both sure they are perfectly content with.
The third book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. An interesting book which I enjoyed but I’m on the fence about as I didn’t particularly like either Edmund nor Marianne they were a bit too two dimensional for me & I also felt Edmund was immature. I also didn’t feel much chemistry between them. It was a light, often amusing story with misunderstandings
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
December 22, 2024
Mrs Marianne Pembroke, a young widow of twenty-three has been sent by her parents to her aunt, Lady Barrington, in Bath in hopes of securing a suitable marriage. Edward Templeton is very much aware of his appeal to all the young debutants in Bath and is more than happy to flirt shamelessly but is not interested in pursuing anything more serious to the frustration of his parents who feel it is high time Edward apply himself to the running of the estate and looking for a suitable bride.
Marianne has a head on her shoulders and is not swayed by Edward’s charm as she sees right through him. After they both realise their relatives are keen for both to marry, and neither is interested to do so, they become fast friends in their quest to evade said plight. I did not enjoy this one as I felt both characters were ill suited to each other and did not feel there was chemistry between the characters.
I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my review voluntarily.
Marianne has a head on her shoulders and is not swayed by Edward’s charm as she sees right through him. After they both realise their relatives are keen for both to marry, and neither is interested to do so, they become fast friends in their quest to evade said plight. I did not enjoy this one as I felt both characters were ill suited to each other and did not feel there was chemistry between the characters.
I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my review voluntarily.
December 20, 2024
She is not interested in being married. She has already suffered loss and doesn't need the strain on her heart. He is still too young to marry or so he thinks. He needs to grow up somehow everyone thinks so.
I really enjoyed the other books in this series. This books seemed a little different. Maybe a little more of the characters thoughtfulness coming through narration. This book seemed to be a little more juvenile in the narration of thoughts, than the others in this series. It was still enjoyable but would have been more so without so that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with guidelines.
I really enjoyed the other books in this series. This books seemed a little different. Maybe a little more of the characters thoughtfulness coming through narration. This book seemed to be a little more juvenile in the narration of thoughts, than the others in this series. It was still enjoyable but would have been more so without so that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with guidelines.
November 14, 2024
45%
In this story we follow Marianne and Edmund as they form an alliance against their respective relatives who are set on marrying them.
The novel is written in peculiar format- third POV past tense, each chapter following one main character, with their inner thoughts written in present tense, in italics. Additionally, the writing style is such that it reads like a comedic play, not a novel. Due to this, I found myself unable to take the story seriously.
The characters seemed too juvenile to me. I have a suspicion that this book was intended for different age bracket.
Would recommend this book to 12–14-year-olds.
I obtained ARC of this book on Netgalley.
In this story we follow Marianne and Edmund as they form an alliance against their respective relatives who are set on marrying them.
The novel is written in peculiar format- third POV past tense, each chapter following one main character, with their inner thoughts written in present tense, in italics. Additionally, the writing style is such that it reads like a comedic play, not a novel. Due to this, I found myself unable to take the story seriously.
The characters seemed too juvenile to me. I have a suspicion that this book was intended for different age bracket.
Would recommend this book to 12–14-year-olds.
I obtained ARC of this book on Netgalley.
January 4, 2025
I have read all three books in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them all, yet this was the best! Each book follows the lives and loves of one of the Templeton family, all living close to each other in Regency Bath. Marianne and Edmund each have their reasons for being in no hurry to marry, if ever, yet slowly we see their resolve crumble as their feelings for each other, although hidden, continue to grow. I love the clear depiction of the time, in the language, morals and daily pursuits. Engaging characters and a love story I was eager to see end happily.
January 17, 2025
Marianne a widow, has been sent to Bath to find a spouse as has Edmund an heir to a title. Both are uninterested, but for different reasons, and become friends. Edmund is immature and this book is about his growth. Marianne is vulnerable and afraid to lose her heart again. With a light humorous vein running through the book, some meddl8ng relatives and a dash of intrigue, this book was decent but not a great read. The main characters and their interactions were a bit too tedious.
#netgalley #StartingAgain
#netgalley #StartingAgain
December 9, 2024
A sweet historical romance from a series set in the town of Bath.
Our hero has some serious growing up to do. Our heroine, on the other hand, has already suffered incredible heartache.
It is an amusing story filled with missteps and misunderstandings. There are a lot of people trying to help (interfere ) the couple make the right decisions. A very over indulged pug even plays his part.
Good fun.
Our hero has some serious growing up to do. Our heroine, on the other hand, has already suffered incredible heartache.
It is an amusing story filled with missteps and misunderstandings. There are a lot of people trying to help (interfere ) the couple make the right decisions. A very over indulged pug even plays his part.
Good fun.
December 22, 2024
In this third book, we find Marianne and Edmund being pushed into a marriage neither want. In the process, they become fast friends and must deal with all the outside influences, a sweet love blossoming and a threat to deal with. A full story filled with lots over great characters. The plot is engaging and will hold the readers full attention.
December 22, 2024
Lady Barrington was a great character who really surprised me over the course of the book (no spoilers). Her spoiled little pug Nelson was my favourite. And there is a secret Royal surprise at the end… a compelling addition to the trilogy. Well worth the read! Would recommend starting with book one of the trilogy
January 5, 2025
This third book in The Heart Of Bath series is a charming and well written love story. The characters were delightful and interesting. I enjoyed this entertaining romance of a widow and her second chance at love and happiness. I especially liked the unique way the author wrote of the main characters' thoughts, all through the story. The ending was lovely. I highly recommend reading!
dnf
December 28, 2024I would like to thank Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A bit twee.
A bit twee.
August 24, 2025
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Losing her husband so young has left Marianne scarred in multiple ways. Her family are encouraging her to remarry, and have sent her to live with her aunt in Bath for the season with one aim - marry, or become a governess. Determined to never marry without love, and not expecting to find it again, Marianne knows it' futile, but she meets Edmund Templeton, and soon they plot to get their families off their backs. Edmund is the heir of his father's title, and is being hassled to marry and start a family, especially after his siblings weddings. He has no inclination to wed though, and so he and Marianne pretend to be in love to bide their time. However, circumstances soon lead them to wonder if their adamance to not marry is getting in the way of true love?
I liked how the entire Templeton family came together in this book to support each other. Edmund was definitely hard headed, and it took more than a few events for him to see that his growing friendship and camaraderie with Marianne could be his future, and that the feelings he was getting around her were actually feelings of love. I don't think their chemistry was the best in the series, but their friendship was enjoyable to read, and it was clear to everyone that they were a good match.
Losing her husband so young has left Marianne scarred in multiple ways. Her family are encouraging her to remarry, and have sent her to live with her aunt in Bath for the season with one aim - marry, or become a governess. Determined to never marry without love, and not expecting to find it again, Marianne knows it' futile, but she meets Edmund Templeton, and soon they plot to get their families off their backs. Edmund is the heir of his father's title, and is being hassled to marry and start a family, especially after his siblings weddings. He has no inclination to wed though, and so he and Marianne pretend to be in love to bide their time. However, circumstances soon lead them to wonder if their adamance to not marry is getting in the way of true love?
I liked how the entire Templeton family came together in this book to support each other. Edmund was definitely hard headed, and it took more than a few events for him to see that his growing friendship and camaraderie with Marianne could be his future, and that the feelings he was getting around her were actually feelings of love. I don't think their chemistry was the best in the series, but their friendship was enjoyable to read, and it was clear to everyone that they were a good match.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews