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Healing the Wounded Earl
Noah is a navy war veteran, struggling with the physical and emotional effects of the Napoleonic Wars. Although he feels a shell of his former self, he attempts to put the past behind him as the new Earl of Shrewsbury.
In contrast, Clementine seems to have it all... as the eldest daughter of a Viscount, she's funny, kind and enjoys singing and paintings. When she meets Noah, she's immediately taken by the mysterious Earl; they share the same interests, and when they're together, something just seems right.
But with the pressure of society hanging over them and new romantic propositions on the horizon, it won't be an easy pathway for the young couple.
Nobody can deny their attraction to one another but what if they're not quite meant to be?
- GenresHistorical Romance
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 17, 2026
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋
Sex Scene Length: only kisses (and they are short)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): only kisses
Humor: A touch
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? slow
When mains are first on page together: Takes a little bit – chapter 3 of 22, about 13% in but they don’t really interact until even later, like 25-30%
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes. The last chapter is 3 weeks later and the epilogue is about 6 months later
Format: bought e-book
Why I chose this book: The author reached out to me to read an ARC for a different book, and I was curious so I bought this one as a trial.
Mains: Noah (Earl of Shrewsbury) and Clementine Maybury – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first in Bowker’s Unbound Hearts series.
Basic plot:
Noah returns to England and is enchanted with Clementine.
Give this a try if you want:
- historical romance – Regency – 1816
- England setting
- sailor hero – he is a navy war veteran
- Earl hero
- disability rep – hero has lost part of his left arm in battle
- Gunter’s ice visit
- low steam – kisses only
Ages:
- hero is 24, didn’t catch heroine
First line:
Being among other wounded naval men had an odd effect on Noah; despite his pain and anguish, he could not imagine being anywhere else.
My thoughts:
So I first read Gilded Winter by this author and really enjoyed it! There was something about her writing that really pulled me in. But this one I just didn’t connect as well with.
This one felt really slow and I was waiting for something to happen the first half of the book. I wanted to know the mains more, more of their personalities and background. I think the latter half of the book was much better paced for me and I loved that they were interacting and having more dialogue.
I definitely enjoy how character focused these are – I love when the mains are the main theme and it’s all about their romance and relationship. I might try book 2 when it comes out. This one was just a bit too slow for me I think.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: 2
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: Gilded Winter
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋
Sex Scene Length: only kisses (and they are short)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): only kisses
Humor: A touch
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? slow
When mains are first on page together: Takes a little bit – chapter 3 of 22, about 13% in but they don’t really interact until even later, like 25-30%
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes. The last chapter is 3 weeks later and the epilogue is about 6 months later
Format: bought e-book
Why I chose this book: The author reached out to me to read an ARC for a different book, and I was curious so I bought this one as a trial.
Mains: Noah (Earl of Shrewsbury) and Clementine Maybury – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first in Bowker’s Unbound Hearts series.
Basic plot:
Noah returns to England and is enchanted with Clementine.
Give this a try if you want:
- historical romance – Regency – 1816
- England setting
- sailor hero – he is a navy war veteran
- Earl hero
- disability rep – hero has lost part of his left arm in battle
- Gunter’s ice visit
- low steam – kisses only
Ages:
- hero is 24, didn’t catch heroine
First line:
Being among other wounded naval men had an odd effect on Noah; despite his pain and anguish, he could not imagine being anywhere else.
My thoughts:
So I first read Gilded Winter by this author and really enjoyed it! There was something about her writing that really pulled me in. But this one I just didn’t connect as well with.
This one felt really slow and I was waiting for something to happen the first half of the book. I wanted to know the mains more, more of their personalities and background. I think the latter half of the book was much better paced for me and I loved that they were interacting and having more dialogue.
I definitely enjoy how character focused these are – I love when the mains are the main theme and it’s all about their romance and relationship. I might try book 2 when it comes out. This one was just a bit too slow for me I think.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: 2
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: Gilded Winter
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
March 5, 2025
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
RELEASE DATE- march 15th🤭
first off miss millie, thank you for blessing my inbox with this beautiful historical fiction novel and having me along for the ride as part of your ARC team! you absolutely SMASHED YOUR DEBUT GIRL!🥳💗
i actually ate this up in one sitting, i couldn’t put it down. since millie reached out to be to see if id be interested in reviewing for her i immediately got excited!!! this was such a cute lil romance. the MMC is an earl who has a disability due to a horrible incident in the war, leaving him feeling unworthy. an absolutely ADORABLE CURVY FMC who believes she can help heal him. this novel is set in the 1800s and really gave me bridgerton vibes which i absolutely ADORED. and honestly, i think i was born in the wrong era😒🤭 the events/balls, the settings, the characters!!!🥹 ugh, perfect! everything about this was executed beautifully. millie’s novel was written flawlessly and i cannot wait for more books to be published for the ‘unbound hearts’ series.
the love, the vulnerability, the bonds built, the chemistry, the representation!!!! the little twists! honestly, there were certain times where i wanted to slap certain characters👀🫠 but we won’t talk about that rn🤪🤣 what you do need to do though is add this to your tbr!!!
after chatting with millie constantly throughout she said i was a ‘machine’ and ‘crazy’🤪 maybe i am, but i just couldn’t get enough and i am super excited to see what comes next!👀 she’s already teasing me with the covers/characters over inbox and i can’t deal🫣🤭😍 EEEEK!!
RELEASE DATE- march 15th🤭
first off miss millie, thank you for blessing my inbox with this beautiful historical fiction novel and having me along for the ride as part of your ARC team! you absolutely SMASHED YOUR DEBUT GIRL!🥳💗
i actually ate this up in one sitting, i couldn’t put it down. since millie reached out to be to see if id be interested in reviewing for her i immediately got excited!!! this was such a cute lil romance. the MMC is an earl who has a disability due to a horrible incident in the war, leaving him feeling unworthy. an absolutely ADORABLE CURVY FMC who believes she can help heal him. this novel is set in the 1800s and really gave me bridgerton vibes which i absolutely ADORED. and honestly, i think i was born in the wrong era😒🤭 the events/balls, the settings, the characters!!!🥹 ugh, perfect! everything about this was executed beautifully. millie’s novel was written flawlessly and i cannot wait for more books to be published for the ‘unbound hearts’ series.
the love, the vulnerability, the bonds built, the chemistry, the representation!!!! the little twists! honestly, there were certain times where i wanted to slap certain characters👀🫠 but we won’t talk about that rn🤪🤣 what you do need to do though is add this to your tbr!!!
after chatting with millie constantly throughout she said i was a ‘machine’ and ‘crazy’🤪 maybe i am, but i just couldn’t get enough and i am super excited to see what comes next!👀 she’s already teasing me with the covers/characters over inbox and i can’t deal🫣🤭😍 EEEEK!!
February 18, 2025
⭐ 4
Having been able to read a copy of this historical romance novella has been such an exciting opportunity and the passion that Millie has for her characters is super clear! As her debut, this book is filled with so much potential and charm. I really do recommend it for anyone who loves the genre and it's such a quick read too!
I love how Millie incorporates under represented topics, such as disabilities and trauma, especially in an era that wasn't at all concerned with these elements in a healthy way at all. It was such a beautiful approach.
I cannot wait to read the second book in the series - personally, it feels like a closed-door Bridgerton kind of vibe!
Having been able to read a copy of this historical romance novella has been such an exciting opportunity and the passion that Millie has for her characters is super clear! As her debut, this book is filled with so much potential and charm. I really do recommend it for anyone who loves the genre and it's such a quick read too!
I love how Millie incorporates under represented topics, such as disabilities and trauma, especially in an era that wasn't at all concerned with these elements in a healthy way at all. It was such a beautiful approach.
I cannot wait to read the second book in the series - personally, it feels like a closed-door Bridgerton kind of vibe!
March 15, 2025
“You’re not broken, my Lord; you just aren’t done healing yet.” 🥹
This debut novella by Millie Bowker is a story of redemption, second chances, and love in unexpected places.
War changes a man, and no one knows that better than Noah Winfindale. After being maimed in battle, Noah learns he is inheriting his now deceased brother’s title, Earl of Shrewsbury. There is no doubt Noah has shadows to confront. Rather than deal, he is set to become a recluse and vows that “no one will ever know the real him.” As he teeters on the edge of society, Noah realizes few ever did. His former friends disgust him, his mother is hostile at every turn, and all he wants to do is escape.
Then there’s Clementine Maybury. She’s beautiful, titled, and exudes kindness and good-humor. Clementine is a woman who is sure of what she wants, but is unsure she will ever get it. True love only exists in books, right?
After a chance encounter at a formal dinner, Noah can’t stop thinking about Clementine, and Clementine can’t stop thinking about Noah. Their attraction is magnetic, which scares Noah and disrupts Clementine’s choice of practicality over passion regarding relationships. But this spark is undeniable. Noah’s uncertainty and lack of self-assurance could cause him to muck up this romance before it even begins. Clementine believes she has found someone with whom she can be her authentic self, yet that seems too good to be true.
This story has plenty of pining, which is my kind of thing. Every interaction is just enough to leave the characters wanting more of each other, and the reader wanting more of them. Noah has a full arc that will totally win any romance girly over. Clementine’s jovial nature and openness to love is inspirational to Noah and the reader.
Bowker has a good command of pacing and leaves no loose threads. I also really appreciate her ability to write setting. I think this is an element missing in a lot of books in the current year, thus my appreciation is amplified. She has also introduced me to my new all-time favorite verb, “frogmarch.” 😂
All in all, this is a very sweet story. If you’re looking for something light, sugary, and cozy, this is it!
This debut novella by Millie Bowker is a story of redemption, second chances, and love in unexpected places.
War changes a man, and no one knows that better than Noah Winfindale. After being maimed in battle, Noah learns he is inheriting his now deceased brother’s title, Earl of Shrewsbury. There is no doubt Noah has shadows to confront. Rather than deal, he is set to become a recluse and vows that “no one will ever know the real him.” As he teeters on the edge of society, Noah realizes few ever did. His former friends disgust him, his mother is hostile at every turn, and all he wants to do is escape.
Then there’s Clementine Maybury. She’s beautiful, titled, and exudes kindness and good-humor. Clementine is a woman who is sure of what she wants, but is unsure she will ever get it. True love only exists in books, right?
After a chance encounter at a formal dinner, Noah can’t stop thinking about Clementine, and Clementine can’t stop thinking about Noah. Their attraction is magnetic, which scares Noah and disrupts Clementine’s choice of practicality over passion regarding relationships. But this spark is undeniable. Noah’s uncertainty and lack of self-assurance could cause him to muck up this romance before it even begins. Clementine believes she has found someone with whom she can be her authentic self, yet that seems too good to be true.
This story has plenty of pining, which is my kind of thing. Every interaction is just enough to leave the characters wanting more of each other, and the reader wanting more of them. Noah has a full arc that will totally win any romance girly over. Clementine’s jovial nature and openness to love is inspirational to Noah and the reader.
Bowker has a good command of pacing and leaves no loose threads. I also really appreciate her ability to write setting. I think this is an element missing in a lot of books in the current year, thus my appreciation is amplified. She has also introduced me to my new all-time favorite verb, “frogmarch.” 😂
All in all, this is a very sweet story. If you’re looking for something light, sugary, and cozy, this is it!
April 6, 2025
Healing the Wounded Earl is a charming and emotionally tender debut from Millie Bowker. This novella hits all the right notes for lovers of historical romance: a wounded hero, a strong-willed heroine, and just the right dose of angst wrapped in a cosy, comforting pace.
Noah, the newly titled Earl and a war hero navigating life as an amputee, was a standout character for me. His vulnerability, quiet strength, and inner turmoil gave his journey real emotional weight. His chemistry with Clementine was instant but not forced, and watching them find solace in each other was incredibly satisfying.
The novella format means things move quickly. A few plot points like Noah’s shift from self-doubt to bold romantic gestures, or the resolution of family tensions didn’t drag on longer than needed, which, for me as a fast-paced story lover, was key. For readers after a quick, feel-good love story, that brisk pace is definitely part of the charm.
All in all, this was a delightful introduction to Millie Bowker’s work. If you love historical romances with heart and a wounded hero you’ll want to hug, this one’s worth picking up.
Noah, the newly titled Earl and a war hero navigating life as an amputee, was a standout character for me. His vulnerability, quiet strength, and inner turmoil gave his journey real emotional weight. His chemistry with Clementine was instant but not forced, and watching them find solace in each other was incredibly satisfying.
The novella format means things move quickly. A few plot points like Noah’s shift from self-doubt to bold romantic gestures, or the resolution of family tensions didn’t drag on longer than needed, which, for me as a fast-paced story lover, was key. For readers after a quick, feel-good love story, that brisk pace is definitely part of the charm.
All in all, this was a delightful introduction to Millie Bowker’s work. If you love historical romances with heart and a wounded hero you’ll want to hug, this one’s worth picking up.
March 16, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really loved Healing the Wounded Earl by Millie Bowker. It’s such a heartfelt historical romance and it completely drew me in from the beginning. The story feels very genuine and emotional without ever becoming overly heavy, which I really appreciated.
The Earl’s character is written so thoughtfully, and his journey of healing feels believable and moving. Watching him slowly open up and begin to trust again is really satisfying. The heroine is lovely as well—kind, patient, and strong in a quiet way that makes their relationship feel very natural.
What stood out to me most was how gently the story handles themes of recovery, vulnerability, and finding hope again. The romance builds at a really nice pace, so when the emotional moments happen they feel well earned.
Overall it’s a really warm, comforting historical romance with characters you can genuinely care about. I finished it feeling very happy and would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys character-driven historical love stories.
I really loved Healing the Wounded Earl by Millie Bowker. It’s such a heartfelt historical romance and it completely drew me in from the beginning. The story feels very genuine and emotional without ever becoming overly heavy, which I really appreciated.
The Earl’s character is written so thoughtfully, and his journey of healing feels believable and moving. Watching him slowly open up and begin to trust again is really satisfying. The heroine is lovely as well—kind, patient, and strong in a quiet way that makes their relationship feel very natural.
What stood out to me most was how gently the story handles themes of recovery, vulnerability, and finding hope again. The romance builds at a really nice pace, so when the emotional moments happen they feel well earned.
Overall it’s a really warm, comforting historical romance with characters you can genuinely care about. I finished it feeling very happy and would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys character-driven historical love stories.
March 15, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Steam level: Kisses; fade-to-black
Thoughts:
Healing the Wounded Earl is Millie Bowker’s pleasant debut into the cozy corner of historical romance. This story is a love letter to the genre and provides such a warm and comforting feeling immediately upon reading the prologue.
For a short-length book, it packed a lot of drama, angst, and love. Although the love appeared to be so instant (as it often is, adoringly), Noah and Clementine have an unspoken romance between them that truly feels genuine. It’s undeniable how right they are for each other. Their interactions were just so butterfly-inducing, and both characters are so endearing. Whether or not it was intentional, Noah's morose thoughts often made me laugh because they were so relatable. That’s not to say that this was just a “funny” book because it definitely made me swoon and cry.
The author also conveys very real feelings of anger, resentment, and disappointment towards life very well. Sometimes, life happens, and it leaves no other option but to grieve. Additionally, the most pleasant surprise about this book is that all of it is written with such a soothing voice, which sets the tone for the best comfort read–fit for any rainy day or when seeking refuge in a book from the overstimulation of real life. It's slower paced and done in such a way that focuses on the day-to-day, making one appreciate little moments that are often overlooked.
I did feel that the resolution was a bit quick. However, for a story this length and the type of book this is, it made sense. In a way, it feels as though this story draws from the best parts of modern and old-school historical romance, and I believe that there are many readers who would enjoy this.
If you’re looking for a short, comforting romance between a kind man making sense of his trauma and self-worth and a clear-headed, quiet, and intelligent woman who knows what she wants, this is the book for you.
I received an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Read this if you like:
- Sadboi male leads
- Love-starved male leads
- Female leads with quiet strength
- She actually tries to move on
- War injury and trauma representation
Steam level: Kisses; fade-to-black
Thoughts:
Healing the Wounded Earl is Millie Bowker’s pleasant debut into the cozy corner of historical romance. This story is a love letter to the genre and provides such a warm and comforting feeling immediately upon reading the prologue.
For a short-length book, it packed a lot of drama, angst, and love. Although the love appeared to be so instant (as it often is, adoringly), Noah and Clementine have an unspoken romance between them that truly feels genuine. It’s undeniable how right they are for each other. Their interactions were just so butterfly-inducing, and both characters are so endearing. Whether or not it was intentional, Noah's morose thoughts often made me laugh because they were so relatable. That’s not to say that this was just a “funny” book because it definitely made me swoon and cry.
The author also conveys very real feelings of anger, resentment, and disappointment towards life very well. Sometimes, life happens, and it leaves no other option but to grieve. Additionally, the most pleasant surprise about this book is that all of it is written with such a soothing voice, which sets the tone for the best comfort read–fit for any rainy day or when seeking refuge in a book from the overstimulation of real life. It's slower paced and done in such a way that focuses on the day-to-day, making one appreciate little moments that are often overlooked.
I did feel that the resolution was a bit quick. However, for a story this length and the type of book this is, it made sense. In a way, it feels as though this story draws from the best parts of modern and old-school historical romance, and I believe that there are many readers who would enjoy this.
If you’re looking for a short, comforting romance between a kind man making sense of his trauma and self-worth and a clear-headed, quiet, and intelligent woman who knows what she wants, this is the book for you.
I received an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Read this if you like:
- Sadboi male leads
- Love-starved male leads
- Female leads with quiet strength
- She actually tries to move on
- War injury and trauma representation
March 9, 2025
Healing the Wounded Earl is indie-author Millie Bowker’s debut regency romance to be released on March 15th.
Noah, the second son, has just unexpectedly become the Earl of Shrewsbury, and must return home from the war in France. However, he is arriving home a changed man, both physically and emotionally. He has responsibilities now, a new outlook on life, and a need to find a wife. He is also returning without his arm that was lost during his service.
Upon his arrival in England, he is soon captivated by the charming Clemetine Maybury. She is an eldest daughter with a talent for embroidery, taste for sweets, and the voice of an angel. She feels the same attraction, but Noah’s self-consciousness has him fleeing from her presence. He wants to court her, but he is most afraid to confuse love with pity.
Millie’s writing style is polished and clean with an easy-to-read flow. She adds many details of the clothing, settings, and food that allowed me to become engulfed in the Regency vibes without it slowing down the story. She doesn’t add fluff to extend a scene when it’s not necessary, and I appreciate that.
The romance felt pure, even with the struggles that had to be overcome. There were mistakes, but it wasn’t toxic. It was closed-door, but the physical intimacy that was written was done so with as much talent as established romance authors. There was no awkwardness and it felt coherent with the rest of her writing.
I enjoyed the complete cast of characters introduced in this first story of her Unbound Hearts Series. It will serve as a great setup to whoever becomes the next protagonist. I will enjoy seeing this author bring her skill with words to develop more characters and plots as she continues her career.
I received this as an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
Noah, the second son, has just unexpectedly become the Earl of Shrewsbury, and must return home from the war in France. However, he is arriving home a changed man, both physically and emotionally. He has responsibilities now, a new outlook on life, and a need to find a wife. He is also returning without his arm that was lost during his service.
Upon his arrival in England, he is soon captivated by the charming Clemetine Maybury. She is an eldest daughter with a talent for embroidery, taste for sweets, and the voice of an angel. She feels the same attraction, but Noah’s self-consciousness has him fleeing from her presence. He wants to court her, but he is most afraid to confuse love with pity.
Millie’s writing style is polished and clean with an easy-to-read flow. She adds many details of the clothing, settings, and food that allowed me to become engulfed in the Regency vibes without it slowing down the story. She doesn’t add fluff to extend a scene when it’s not necessary, and I appreciate that.
The romance felt pure, even with the struggles that had to be overcome. There were mistakes, but it wasn’t toxic. It was closed-door, but the physical intimacy that was written was done so with as much talent as established romance authors. There was no awkwardness and it felt coherent with the rest of her writing.
I enjoyed the complete cast of characters introduced in this first story of her Unbound Hearts Series. It will serve as a great setup to whoever becomes the next protagonist. I will enjoy seeing this author bring her skill with words to develop more characters and plots as she continues her career.
I received this as an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
March 7, 2025
Noah is returning from war, feeling broken both emotionally and physically. He’s not the man he was before, and doesn’t imagine he ever will be, especially now that he’s missing one of his limbs. That is until he meets Clementine, a truly bright spot in his bleak outlook. With her shining and positive personality, she slowly heals this wounded earl.
Noah & Clementine
I really enjoyed how the author integrated small points of humor to lighten the heaviness that comes from Noah’s experiences in war. While he’s clearly still grieving the loss of his comrades and his limb, he’s still got quirks of humor even in his grumpy state. Contrast that with Clemmy who is just altogether a sweet ray of sunshine and endlessly bright. Girl is the embodiment of a giggle and it’s so fun to see her slowly bring out the old side of Noah. It’s so moving to watch these two get to know each other better and watch Noah’s transformation to someone more himself. Now, did I also want to scream at this fool during certain parts of this, yes. But did I understand and root for this man who’s truly struggling in the aftermath of war, also YES!! And Clemmy was such a kind and deserving character (better than me that’s for sure), she didn’t even make him grovel nearly as much as I would (but again, she’s better than me 💜).
This was a super sweet novella debut by Millie Bowker! The last quarter of this book truly wrapped up such an emotional story, and I really liked how their HEA played out. If you’re looking for a closed-door, quick read with sweet and emotional characters, check out this debut.
3.75 rounded to 4⭐️ Thank you to the author for an eARC of this book.
Noah & Clementine
I really enjoyed how the author integrated small points of humor to lighten the heaviness that comes from Noah’s experiences in war. While he’s clearly still grieving the loss of his comrades and his limb, he’s still got quirks of humor even in his grumpy state. Contrast that with Clemmy who is just altogether a sweet ray of sunshine and endlessly bright. Girl is the embodiment of a giggle and it’s so fun to see her slowly bring out the old side of Noah. It’s so moving to watch these two get to know each other better and watch Noah’s transformation to someone more himself. Now, did I also want to scream at this fool during certain parts of this, yes. But did I understand and root for this man who’s truly struggling in the aftermath of war, also YES!! And Clemmy was such a kind and deserving character (better than me that’s for sure), she didn’t even make him grovel nearly as much as I would (but again, she’s better than me 💜).
This was a super sweet novella debut by Millie Bowker! The last quarter of this book truly wrapped up such an emotional story, and I really liked how their HEA played out. If you’re looking for a closed-door, quick read with sweet and emotional characters, check out this debut.
3.75 rounded to 4⭐️ Thank you to the author for an eARC of this book.
March 6, 2025
A charming heartfelt debut novella!
Clementine & Noah
She’s a happy, kind-hearted, funny eldest daughter, raised in the warm nest of a respected viscount - her brother is a scoundrel, but this is not his book. Although she likes all the ton razzle dazzle, she’s not a fan of crowds and her nerves sometimes get the better of her.
He used to be a merry rake, but then Napoleon happened. Born the spare, he never expected to return home missing an arm and suddenly the earl himself. He’s plagued by survivor’s guilt, nightmares, and a mother who only ever had eyes for his older brother.
They hit it off rather quickly, but then he gets spooked...
This is a sweet and cosy ‘kisses only’ story, beautifully set and just that perfect little bit different from the others to set it apart.
It’s really wonderful to read a young sensible heroine who, for once, is perfectly happy with herself and her circumstances - a debutante without pressure, and the perfect counterpart for our broken hero. Their romance felt natural and realistic, including overcoming their personal potholes before happily ever after. I really enjoyed the different dynamics in both families, the colourful set of side-characters and I wouldn’t mind a few stories about them in the future.
It was a lovely read, not perfect, but a promising start and I’m very much looking forward to seeing this new author grow!
Clementine & Noah
She’s a happy, kind-hearted, funny eldest daughter, raised in the warm nest of a respected viscount - her brother is a scoundrel, but this is not his book. Although she likes all the ton razzle dazzle, she’s not a fan of crowds and her nerves sometimes get the better of her.
He used to be a merry rake, but then Napoleon happened. Born the spare, he never expected to return home missing an arm and suddenly the earl himself. He’s plagued by survivor’s guilt, nightmares, and a mother who only ever had eyes for his older brother.
They hit it off rather quickly, but then he gets spooked...
This is a sweet and cosy ‘kisses only’ story, beautifully set and just that perfect little bit different from the others to set it apart.
It’s really wonderful to read a young sensible heroine who, for once, is perfectly happy with herself and her circumstances - a debutante without pressure, and the perfect counterpart for our broken hero. Their romance felt natural and realistic, including overcoming their personal potholes before happily ever after. I really enjoyed the different dynamics in both families, the colourful set of side-characters and I wouldn’t mind a few stories about them in the future.
It was a lovely read, not perfect, but a promising start and I’m very much looking forward to seeing this new author grow!
March 8, 2025
Millie's debut novel was a delight to read. Such a heart-warming and cozy read. It's a novella and can be read in one sitting. When I read a new author, I'm always concerned whether I would enjoy their writing style. From the very first page, I was pleasantly surprised at how good Millie's writing was! The writing was high quality, the plot was engaging, and the descriptions helped me submerge further into the story. I enjoyed Noah and Clementine's characters and found them very well-developed. Moreover, their interactions with their family members and friends were complex and at times very fun! I enjoyed the differences between Noah and Clementine's family dynamics.
Noah and Clem's love story was very sweet. There was a third act breakup, a potential for a life triangle, and family conflict and its resolution. Besides, Noah is an injured war hero - my favourite trope!!! I loved how vulnerable he was, how insecure about being deserving of love.
I enjoyed this novella a lot, and I'm veryyy curious who the second book in the series will be about.
Noah and Clem's love story was very sweet. There was a third act breakup, a potential for a life triangle, and family conflict and its resolution. Besides, Noah is an injured war hero - my favourite trope!!! I loved how vulnerable he was, how insecure about being deserving of love.
I enjoyed this novella a lot, and I'm veryyy curious who the second book in the series will be about.
May 14, 2026
Just wow!
First of all, after meeting Millie, I cannot express how much the overall vibe of this book completely matches the author herself!
From start to finish this book felt so easy to pick up and read, a nice gentle finish to a hard working day, or a time to relax with a cup of tea and escape. The thought into descriptions and details really draws you into the story and brings the whole book to life!
The book has such a cosy, romantic, lovely feel and I couldn’t be happier with how it ended.
The character growth and development, and relationship building is so heart warming and the characters are just so so lovable.
My favourite quote from the book would have to be:
“ “She is worth it. I would give her the world if she asked for it; I know that now.” “ - Noah got me giggling at this, SO cute.
First of all, after meeting Millie, I cannot express how much the overall vibe of this book completely matches the author herself!
From start to finish this book felt so easy to pick up and read, a nice gentle finish to a hard working day, or a time to relax with a cup of tea and escape. The thought into descriptions and details really draws you into the story and brings the whole book to life!
The book has such a cosy, romantic, lovely feel and I couldn’t be happier with how it ended.
The character growth and development, and relationship building is so heart warming and the characters are just so so lovable.
My favourite quote from the book would have to be:
“ “She is worth it. I would give her the world if she asked for it; I know that now.” “ - Noah got me giggling at this, SO cute.
April 19, 2025
I wanted more, in a good way, loved this book, adore both the characters and how Noah was battling with his new disability since coming home from the war, love how clementine saw passed it and just wanted him for who he was. Obsessed with this era so it was the perfect short read
March 6, 2025
Beautiful story with well written characters. Was able to read it in a few hours, I felt like I was living in a bridgerton episode while reading this historical fiction romance.
July 9, 2025
absolutely an amazing story from start to finish I can't wait to read more
July 30, 2025
Wounded navy lieutenant and curvy FMC. He has ptsd and she has social anxiety. It’s a cute shorty historical romance novella, closed door.
November 6, 2025
This novella was the perfect length, enough to focus on thr main characters and I found myself reading it in less than a day, I was hooked. The book is such a heartwarming read, i really enjoyed it.
February 14, 2026
A sweet and cosy read.
March 18, 2025
Making her debut in historical romance, Millie Bowker’s novella Healing the Wounded Earl offers much to admire and enjoy. The tender love story of Clementine and Noah centres on their mutual longing for understanding and connection—needs they ultimately fulfill in one another. Noah, grappling with his identity as a newly titled Earl and adjusting to life as an amputee following the Napoleonic War, meets Clementine, a woman determined to find someone who values her intelligence and independent spirit. Their fateful encounter at a social gathering leads to an immediate and compelling bond that swiftly blossoms into love.
This novella brings some refreshing perspectives to the genre. Noah’s journey through trauma and his strained relationship with his mother create sources of conflict and tension. Likewise, Clementine’s social anxiety and her progressive outlook make her an empathetic and relatable counterpart for Noah, and shows how well-suited these two characters are for one another.
That said, the novella is not without some shortcomings. Certain elements, such as occasional anachronistic language, technical errors, and uneven dialogue, detract slightly from the reading experience. Additionally, there’s a tendency to resolve conflicts quickly rather than delve into deeper character development. For instance, Noah’s rapid transformation from wrestling with insecurities to wholeheartedly pursuing Clementine for marriage felt somewhat rushed, as did his mother’s change later in the story. That being said, this could be part of the appeal for readers seeking a cozy, uplifting romance with a fast-paced narrative—an aspect many have clearly appreciated, as evidenced by the glowing reviews this novella has received.
Ultimately, Healing the Wounded Earl demonstrates Millie Bowker’s talent and potential as a promising new voice in the genre. I’m glad I gave this a try and look forward to seeing what she brings to her next work. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
This novella brings some refreshing perspectives to the genre. Noah’s journey through trauma and his strained relationship with his mother create sources of conflict and tension. Likewise, Clementine’s social anxiety and her progressive outlook make her an empathetic and relatable counterpart for Noah, and shows how well-suited these two characters are for one another.
That said, the novella is not without some shortcomings. Certain elements, such as occasional anachronistic language, technical errors, and uneven dialogue, detract slightly from the reading experience. Additionally, there’s a tendency to resolve conflicts quickly rather than delve into deeper character development. For instance, Noah’s rapid transformation from wrestling with insecurities to wholeheartedly pursuing Clementine for marriage felt somewhat rushed, as did his mother’s change later in the story. That being said, this could be part of the appeal for readers seeking a cozy, uplifting romance with a fast-paced narrative—an aspect many have clearly appreciated, as evidenced by the glowing reviews this novella has received.
Ultimately, Healing the Wounded Earl demonstrates Millie Bowker’s talent and potential as a promising new voice in the genre. I’m glad I gave this a try and look forward to seeing what she brings to her next work. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
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