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The Virtues #2
Finding Hope
Forbidden love. Duty. Danger. Will love be enough to conquer all?
Max, Lord Rotham, has been browbeaten by his mother, the Duchess of Davenmere, to marry her choice for him. The more he resists, the more she schemes to force the match upon him. He became connected with the beauty Hope Whitford when her and her sisters were entangled in a dangerous situation, and while he feels drawn to her, he is not ready to commit to a lifetime because of his mother. But is losing Hope worth spiting his mother?
Hope Whitford, the second of five sisters, has always dreamed of a grand London Season and match, despite their modest claims to the upper class. Their new guardian places them centre stage in the middle of the ton and in close proximity to its most eligible bachelors. When they are invited to a house party at a ducal estate, it looks as though her dreams may come true…except someone means to make certain that never happens…no matter what.
Max, Lord Rotham, has been browbeaten by his mother, the Duchess of Davenmere, to marry her choice for him. The more he resists, the more she schemes to force the match upon him. He became connected with the beauty Hope Whitford when her and her sisters were entangled in a dangerous situation, and while he feels drawn to her, he is not ready to commit to a lifetime because of his mother. But is losing Hope worth spiting his mother?
Hope Whitford, the second of five sisters, has always dreamed of a grand London Season and match, despite their modest claims to the upper class. Their new guardian places them centre stage in the middle of the ton and in close proximity to its most eligible bachelors. When they are invited to a house party at a ducal estate, it looks as though her dreams may come true…except someone means to make certain that never happens…no matter what.
220 pages, Paperback
Published January 17, 2025
328 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Johns
80 books360 followers Like many writers, Elizabeth Johns was first an avid reader, though she was a reluctant convert. It was Jane Austen's clever wit and unique turn of phrase that hooked Johns when she was "forced" to read Pride and Prejudice for a school assignment. She began writing when she ran out of her favorite author’s books and decided to try her hand at crafting a Regency romance novel. Her journey into publishing began with the release of Surrender the Past, book one of the Loring-Abbott Series. Johns makes no pretensions to Austen’s wit but hopes readers will perhaps laugh and find some enjoyment in her writing.
Johns attributes much of her inspiration to her mother, a retired English teacher. During their last summer together, Johns would sit on the porch swing and read her stories to her mother, who encouraged her to continue writing. Busy with multiple careers, including a professional job in the medical field, author and mother of small children, Johns squeezes in time for reading whenever possible.
Johns attributes much of her inspiration to her mother, a retired English teacher. During their last summer together, Johns would sit on the porch swing and read her stories to her mother, who encouraged her to continue writing. Busy with multiple careers, including a professional job in the medical field, author and mother of small children, Johns squeezes in time for reading whenever possible.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 11, 2024
The good and the bad. The h was impressive...but if her life was in danger why was she often left alone and without a guard? The H grew on me but then why if he truly loved the h, would he organize a house party and invite several other women to interview them for the 'job' of being his Duchess? The h's guardian was totally correct in calling him out, too bad he did not use a baseball bat.
The H's father was okay in my book and someone I would have liked...a lot. His mother was an evil, malicious evil waste of oxygen that her husband should have dealt with many years ago. She was soulless and without an ounce of humanity.
They did finally get their HEA but only after many, many trials and tribulations. The writing was good, the storyline held your interest though at times it did slow down.
The H's father was okay in my book and someone I would have liked...a lot. His mother was an evil, malicious evil waste of oxygen that her husband should have dealt with many years ago. She was soulless and without an ounce of humanity.
They did finally get their HEA but only after many, many trials and tribulations. The writing was good, the storyline held your interest though at times it did slow down.
April 26, 2024
So bad. I would have stopped reading this book because the plot was just ridiculous, but I have covid and I don’t want to read a good book I’ll probably forget because I’m sick. Unless, you’re sick or have nothing else to do, do not read this boring book.
February 20, 2025
2 stars
Meah
Meah
March 8, 2024
Hope makes stupid choices that put her in danger a lot and doesn't learn.
February 1, 2024
This was a fun read. I enjoyed Hope and Max's journey to their HEA. Hope was smitten from day one but Max had doubts due to growing up in a cold and unloving home. Plus he didn't want to put Hop through the scorn of his mother.
They both find themselves at a house party and can not stay away from each other despite their best efforts and the efforts of others. It is then they begin to realize that they can not live without each other. However, their journey to a HEA won't be easy because there is someone who is determined to keep them apart at all costs.
My favorite part of the book was the mystery Hope and Max had to solve. it was full of tension and suspense and I couldn't turn the page fast enough. the author keeps you on your toes and guessing on who is the culprit and how it will turn out.
They both find themselves at a house party and can not stay away from each other despite their best efforts and the efforts of others. It is then they begin to realize that they can not live without each other. However, their journey to a HEA won't be easy because there is someone who is determined to keep them apart at all costs.
My favorite part of the book was the mystery Hope and Max had to solve. it was full of tension and suspense and I couldn't turn the page fast enough. the author keeps you on your toes and guessing on who is the culprit and how it will turn out.
April 17, 2024
A clean story. I liked this story. Yes, it maybe started to be apparent who the antagonist it was, but was she being assisted by a guest? That kept me reading. Was one of ladies indeed in an interesting condition, so looking for a gentleman urgently? Sadly we never did find out. Likewise where was she sent and what was done to the duchess. I do think her maid and the footman might have been held and been subjected to punishment. I also think the Duke would have stood up to the Duchess a long time ago. But I found the book readable and enjoyable, and that is its purpose hence the rating. On to the next book.
January 31, 2024
I liked this book at the beginning, and the end was nice as well. But as the storyline went on the events became all the more contrived and unbelievable.
October 11, 2025
This second book in the series of historical romances tells the story of the second sister, Hope, and one of the gentlemen who already appeared in the first book escorting the sisters in their first London season. So, in fact, the love story has already started, in the sense that the protagonists already know each other and have fallen in love, even if they still need to come to terms with their feelings and no declaration has been made.
The book starts when the London season has ended and the hero, who happens to be the heir to a dukedom, discovers that his father's health is failing and decides that it is his duty to get married. To this end, he throws a house party, inviting not only Hope and his sisters, but also other eligible ladies (since he's having doubts, planted by his snobbish mother, regarding Hope's suitability to become a duchess).
Once again, this book is a homage to some of the best-known tropes of regencies. While the first book was set in the London season, this one is set in a house party and plays the card of the conflict brought on by different social status. And, while the previous book had some villain lurking at balls and so on, this one has it's own mystery and a a decided gothic touch. Overall, quite entertaining.
The book starts when the London season has ended and the hero, who happens to be the heir to a dukedom, discovers that his father's health is failing and decides that it is his duty to get married. To this end, he throws a house party, inviting not only Hope and his sisters, but also other eligible ladies (since he's having doubts, planted by his snobbish mother, regarding Hope's suitability to become a duchess).
Once again, this book is a homage to some of the best-known tropes of regencies. While the first book was set in the London season, this one is set in a house party and plays the card of the conflict brought on by different social status. And, while the previous book had some villain lurking at balls and so on, this one has it's own mystery and a a decided gothic touch. Overall, quite entertaining.
March 11, 2025
story line too common.
Ms John's has the ability to write fantastic stories, in my opinion this was not one of them. I feel maybe she is trying to put the stories out too quickly, so isn't taking time to create a new plot.
I found my intelligence insulted by the H and h being fairly stupid. Really, they couldn't figure out who was causing problems? Then she goes off to an isolated place secretly when she knew someone was trying to possibly kill her? She follows the servant to an unknown location when she had been waiting for the H to escort her. She was about as dumb as a box of rocks and he wasn't much smarter. So I was pretty annoyed at most of the story. There were other things that lacked credibility, but I've said enough.
I found myself just wanting the book to end and then it just drug on.
The previous story about faith was not bad. A bit common in plot but enjoyable. This one not so much. The super wicked mother was just unrealistic.
Ms John's has the ability to write fantastic stories, in my opinion this was not one of them. I feel maybe she is trying to put the stories out too quickly, so isn't taking time to create a new plot.
I found my intelligence insulted by the H and h being fairly stupid. Really, they couldn't figure out who was causing problems? Then she goes off to an isolated place secretly when she knew someone was trying to possibly kill her? She follows the servant to an unknown location when she had been waiting for the H to escort her. She was about as dumb as a box of rocks and he wasn't much smarter. So I was pretty annoyed at most of the story. There were other things that lacked credibility, but I've said enough.
I found myself just wanting the book to end and then it just drug on.
The previous story about faith was not bad. A bit common in plot but enjoyable. This one not so much. The super wicked mother was just unrealistic.
February 9, 2024
clean romance
I truly enjoyed this “episode “ of the Virtues series.
The author draws the reader in to see the different sisters and their experiences from the start of the book.
The plot keeps you engaged and has several interesting twists and turns. The characters are well developed and are believable.
Both hero and heroine are strong and determined to be true to themselves and their dreams instead of giving into threats. Their spirit with support from most family and friends allow them to triumph.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
I truly enjoyed this “episode “ of the Virtues series.
The author draws the reader in to see the different sisters and their experiences from the start of the book.
The plot keeps you engaged and has several interesting twists and turns. The characters are well developed and are believable.
Both hero and heroine are strong and determined to be true to themselves and their dreams instead of giving into threats. Their spirit with support from most family and friends allow them to triumph.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
April 12, 2024
Romance - Clean
Language - Mild
Violence - Mild
Series Book 2
I enjoyed Hope and Max's story. Getting to their HEA was not easy, especially for Hope. Everything that happens to her and them would definitely make one question whether it was worth it or not.
I was not surprised by whomever the villain was revealed to be. The clues are definitely there, but it was a good story, and I never knew what to expect next.
If you enjoy a good, clean, historical romance, I recommend reading this book and series.
On to the next one.
Language - Mild
Violence - Mild
Series Book 2
I enjoyed Hope and Max's story. Getting to their HEA was not easy, especially for Hope. Everything that happens to her and them would definitely make one question whether it was worth it or not.
I was not surprised by whomever the villain was revealed to be. The clues are definitely there, but it was a good story, and I never knew what to expect next.
If you enjoy a good, clean, historical romance, I recommend reading this book and series.
On to the next one.
February 18, 2025
The continuing story of the Whitford sisters' romances
Although the series can be read as stand-alone books it is much more enjoyable to read them from beginning to end,this Story "finding hope" Is the story of Hope's Falling in love with the future duke ;However there are Battles to win as the duke's mother does not want her son Max,Lord Rotham, marrying Hope. Rotham also needs to figure out if Hope can be a good duchess as she was not raised in nobility And a duchess has many responsibilities, will they marry for love or will Lord Rotham honor his mother's wishes?
Although the series can be read as stand-alone books it is much more enjoyable to read them from beginning to end,this Story "finding hope" Is the story of Hope's Falling in love with the future duke ;However there are Battles to win as the duke's mother does not want her son Max,Lord Rotham, marrying Hope. Rotham also needs to figure out if Hope can be a good duchess as she was not raised in nobility And a duchess has many responsibilities, will they marry for love or will Lord Rotham honor his mother's wishes?
February 10, 2024
A little slow to begin. As the second book and the second sister in the series, this should be read in order. The story picks up as it goes along, although the villain was relatively easy to figure out. The romance was absent at first, so it was good when Hope and Max came to care about each other despite all the problems. There is a good epilogue.
As for book 3, think it will be Patience and Major Stuart. There were a few hints. Guess we will find out in a year or so.
As for book 3, think it will be Patience and Major Stuart. There were a few hints. Guess we will find out in a year or so.
March 16, 2024
Wicked Good
Such shenanigans! Elizabeth Johns rarely disappoints her readers, and ‘Finding Hope’ is another success.
She writes so well that I became irritated with Max. I wanted to slap some sense into him, while at the same time having some sympathy over his emotional turmoil.
Hope is a delightful character, full of strength and charm.
Hopefully the rest of the series will follow quickly.
Highly recommended
Such shenanigans! Elizabeth Johns rarely disappoints her readers, and ‘Finding Hope’ is another success.
She writes so well that I became irritated with Max. I wanted to slap some sense into him, while at the same time having some sympathy over his emotional turmoil.
Hope is a delightful character, full of strength and charm.
Hopefully the rest of the series will follow quickly.
Highly recommended
May 23, 2024
filled with hope indeed
This second installment shares the love story of Hope and Max, the heir of the dukedom and one of the best friends we meet in the first novel.
I loved how the story unravels and the characters appear again but with more insight and growth. The plot is engaging , full of suspense, intrigue, and emotions. It’s good to see both of the MCs grow in their understanding of what love should be and how precious it can be with the right person.
This second installment shares the love story of Hope and Max, the heir of the dukedom and one of the best friends we meet in the first novel.
I loved how the story unravels and the characters appear again but with more insight and growth. The plot is engaging , full of suspense, intrigue, and emotions. It’s good to see both of the MCs grow in their understanding of what love should be and how precious it can be with the right person.
June 6, 2024
The Duchess Vanity
Intending to marry outside the nobelity, Max had fallen in love with a gentleman's daughter. Unfortunately the gentleman was a missionary in India. He lived his life in poverty. His daughters were raised to be ladies but had no dowries Max's mother the Duchess thought Hope was far below his station in life and unsuitable for a future Duke. The Duchess did everything to sabotage the friendship..
Intending to marry outside the nobelity, Max had fallen in love with a gentleman's daughter. Unfortunately the gentleman was a missionary in India. He lived his life in poverty. His daughters were raised to be ladies but had no dowries Max's mother the Duchess thought Hope was far below his station in life and unsuitable for a future Duke. The Duchess did everything to sabotage the friendship..
February 18, 2024
Astounding!
Elizabeth never fails to provide an astounding read. Her books always grab hold of me right from the start and keep me wanting more. They are extremely hard to put down once I have started them. I truly enjoyed Max and Hope’s starry and can’t wait for the next in the series.
Elizabeth never fails to provide an astounding read. Her books always grab hold of me right from the start and keep me wanting more. They are extremely hard to put down once I have started them. I truly enjoyed Max and Hope’s starry and can’t wait for the next in the series.
September 24, 2024
A lovely book!
As always some edge-of-my-seat parts. Beautifully written with amazing descriptions of the Duke’s castle and grounds. The characters are all likable except the bad person about whom we boo and hiss! Very interesting descriptions of the social mores of the day, particularly for a duke.
As always some edge-of-my-seat parts. Beautifully written with amazing descriptions of the Duke’s castle and grounds. The characters are all likable except the bad person about whom we boo and hiss! Very interesting descriptions of the social mores of the day, particularly for a duke.
January 26, 2024
I am loving this series. This book is about Hope. I love all these characters so much. The sisters, their husbands and friends are so loveable. Max and Hope have to fight to be together but it makes their love so much stronger. I would highly recommend this book and this series.
February 10, 2024
Wonderful
What a great story! Lots of twists and turns to keep you reading instead of getting any work done!! Fantastic story and characters are so memorable. I highly recommend this book and the first one in this series and I hope that there's more coming!
What a great story! Lots of twists and turns to keep you reading instead of getting any work done!! Fantastic story and characters are so memorable. I highly recommend this book and the first one in this series and I hope that there's more coming!
March 22, 2024
Sister two in the saga of these 5 sisters, and I am loving every minute of it.
Freddy Tiger,, bring him back!
What will happen to Miss Cunningham?
Will the dual party run into old witchy Duchess?
Awaiting book 3!
Freddy Tiger,, bring him back!
What will happen to Miss Cunningham?
Will the dual party run into old witchy Duchess?
Awaiting book 3!
June 18, 2024
a wonderful series
I have enjoyed immensely, both books in this series. I have loved the characters and the history of these people. I enjoy regency romance and these two were smashing.
I have enjoyed immensely, both books in this series. I have loved the characters and the history of these people. I enjoy regency romance and these two were smashing.
June 24, 2024
A total wonderful story
I enjoyed this story very much. The characters were complete and wonderful. The story was a continuing read hard to put down. I would recommend this book. I hope she give us the other sisters story
I enjoyed this story very much. The characters were complete and wonderful. The story was a continuing read hard to put down. I would recommend this book. I hope she give us the other sisters story
March 3, 2025
The Duchess
The story of Hope was very entertaining and full of love, danger and intrege. The Duchess made the story full of tricks and turns. She was totally against Hope. A must read!
The story of Hope was very entertaining and full of love, danger and intrege. The Duchess made the story full of tricks and turns. She was totally against Hope. A must read!
February 4, 2024
Loved it!
I really loved this book! Hope is such a relatable character and getting to know Max’s family kept me very engaged. Couldn’t put the book down! Can’t wait for book 3!
I really loved this book! Hope is such a relatable character and getting to know Max’s family kept me very engaged. Couldn’t put the book down! Can’t wait for book 3!
February 5, 2024
Surviving With Hope
This book was exciting yet I always found myself wondering what could possibly happen next. I worried about a happy ending. What a delightful story!
This book was exciting yet I always found myself wondering what could possibly happen next. I worried about a happy ending. What a delightful story!
February 7, 2024
Finding Hope
This is another book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. It is a clean romance. The characters are mostly delightful except for a sinister misguided soul.
This is another book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. It is a clean romance. The characters are mostly delightful except for a sinister misguided soul.
April 26, 2024
My Rating: 3.75 Stars
September 4, 2024
Audiobook. Narrator fab as always.
March 22, 2025
I like Elizabeth John’s novels. This was a good suspense novel. These sisters are an interesting mix of personalities and I look forward to the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews