To Kiss a Knight

Best Laid Plans #2

by Grace Hitchcock

When everything is going right, something must go wrong

Vivienne Poppy's plans are working out quite well. She's run away from her family and the prospect of a horrid marriage of convenience and plans to spend her time writing under her pseudonym, Lady Larkby. Until she discovers the old Larkby title is not as dead as she thought.


Yeoman of the Guard and recently knighted Sir Sebastian Larkby is stunned to discover a Lady Larkby that he does not remember marrying. Suddenly Vivienne is left with a relinquish her pen name, expose her true identity, and break Sebastian's dying grandmother's heart—or feign marriage to Sebastian to keep the title and fulfill the old woman's wishes.


This witty novel from award-winning author Grace Hitchcock is filled with scandal, mishap, and just the right amount of romance.


"A rollicking Regency with romance, danger, humor, and unexpected plot twists you won't want to miss!"
—Crystal Caudill, Christy Award–winning author of Written in Secret

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, British Literature, Regency, Regency Romance

311 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 1, 2025

About the author

Grace Hitchcock is an award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives near New Orleans with her husband, Dakota, sons and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some stories charm you from the first page and keep you grinning until the last. To Kiss a Knight was exactly that kind of read—clever, quick-witted, and full of delightful trouble I couldn’t stop flipping pages to follow.

Vivienne Poppy might be writing under a name she borrowed, but there’s nothing borrowed about her boldness. I couldn’t help but love her from the start—creative, chaotic in the best way, and always one idea away from making a bigger mess. And Sir Sebastian? Let’s just say his honor isn’t stiff—it’s sincere. There’s a quiet steadiness to him that balances Vivienne’s flair, and I enjoyed every bit of their not-so-simple arrangement.

But tucked in between all the banter and near-disasters were moments that made me pause and smile a different kind of smile.

“I’ve been through such attacks… For me, the lion stalking me is fear. It is only in Christ’s strength that I have found my way through the battle of anxiety and fear.” That line? That’s where this story hit a little deeper for me. Because sometimes, the battle isn’t what’s outside—it’s what stirs inside. And this book doesn’t shy away from that truth. It brings it gently, through characters learning to breathe again, to trust again, to pray through the pressure.

“Lord, help me through this…” A quiet prayer in a fantastic story that continually reminds us we are always dependent on our precious Lord and Savior.

Grace Hitchcock’s writing is exactly what I needed—playful and strong, adventurous with purpose, and full of unexpected joy. I’ll be re-reading Vivienne and Sebastian’s fantastic story over and over again!

I received a digital copy of To Kiss a Knight from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivienne is an authoress writing under the name Lady Larkby, a title she doesn’t think exists but boy is she wrong. Sir Sebastian Larkby is a Yeoman of the guard. He recently went undercover as a highway man. He robbed and took Vivienne but escorted her home. He then discovers that someone is posing as his wife, and he isn’t married. When he finds out it’s Vivienne, he comes up with a plan to help them both with this situation. She agrees to pretend to be married but doesn’t know he was the highway man. And her ex fiancé is on his way to claim her.
Oh man, I loved this story!! It was such fantastic fun! Vivienne is hilarious with all her mishaps. Sebastian is so smug sometimes and finds her delightful. He is very heroic as well. I love their interactions so much! They just sync together so well. I loved Sebastian’s grandmother, she is just great always encouraging them to kiss. Haha. I loved how Sebastian and Vivienne’s relationship progressed. There were a lot of funny moments and some swoony moments as well. I just loved it all! I highly recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book was such a page-turner! From the very first page, you're thrown right into the action, and it’s hard to put down once it starts. Vivienne’s kindness to Sebastian’s grandmother was so heartwarming, and Sebastian’s honorable character sets the bar high for any man. The chemistry between them is electric from the get-go, making you root for them the whole time.

Vivienne is running from a forced marriage and taking on a new identity as the author Lady Larksby in Bath, but things take an unexpected turn when she’s kidnapped by a highwayman. At first, he robs her, then saves her...and that’s where things get complicated. Turns out, Sebastian is no ordinary thief but a knight undercover for the prince. After a life-changing encounter, their paths cross again...

Sebastian needs Vivienne’s help to keep up the appearance of a marriage for his ailing grandmother, and Vivienne needs his name as her pen name... they propose a fake marriage. Sparks fly between them, but there’s one problem. Vivienne doesn’t know Sebastian’s secret: he’s the thief she met earlier. As they navigate their growing feelings and complicated situation, they both struggle with their secrets and what it means for their future. And what happens when the truth is revealed, or when Vivienne former fiancé comes to claim her. Can a fake marriage or a marriage built on lies keep her safe?!

This book is full of twists, romance, and drama. You won’t see the curveballs coming, and I couldn’t stop reading it! I definitely recommend it! I honestly have never read anything quite so unique, and I loved it!

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[Emma | meadowroselibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵."

This has been an anticipated read for me since I read the first book, and it did not disappoint!

Vivienne was a favorite side character, so I was thrilled she was getting her own book! She's so full of life and inspiration , she's one of those characters that you really look up to. So many times she finds herself in dire situations, but she just keeps going and doesn't let anything stop her.

Bash was the absolute perfect hero. 🩷 He gave off Zorro vibes for me which I absolutely LOVED! His two sides to his life really gave it a nice mystery and anticipation for how it would end!

If you enjoy clean closed-door historical romance full of intrigue and mystery, then I highly recommend this one! 🩷

*I received a paperback copy for review, all opinions are my own

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart is soaring! I absolutely adored reading Vivienne and Sebastian's story!!! From that first sentence, I knew this book was going to be delightful and something that I wouldn't want to put down. I honestly didn't want it to end. Grace Hitchcock has created a storyline with characters that you can't but help cheer for them and their struggles and joys.

A Highwayman, a young lady running away to protect herself who ends up kidnapped by said highwayman, a knight in service to the king, said knight's sickly and frail grandmother, a jilted bachelor who is a cad, and dear friends to the young lady who stand by her side. All combined together, they make a delightful group of characters that brought me much laughter, adventure, sweet romance, and joy!

I hadn't read books by this author until I picked up the audiobook for the first book in this series, To Catch a Coronet. I had a copy of this one and wanted to read the first book before diving into this one because I prefer to read books in a series in order. Even though both of these books could be standalone reads, they are both wonderful and worth reading! The friend group in both books made my heart so happy. I love when the main character has a good friend, or more, and we as readers get to see those friendships continue to move forward and develop. These ladies made me smile and giggle, and cheer! They're the best! You're going to love them! And these books! I'm so glad I finally picked up books by this author as some of my book besties have been encouraging me to do so for a while now! They were right, I loved them!!!

Oh my heart! I just adored Vivienne! And Sebastian. Major swoon! Vivienne has made a tangled web, unwittingly, and now fate has jumped in and offered a hand to help her untangle it...or rather tangle it up really good and knotted before she can start to untangle it. And all the untangling is delicious and sweet and perfection! As much as I loved the first book, this second one is even better for me! I hope that if you pick them you, you find yourself smiling and laughing and swooning as I did. This book is definitely going on my favorite's list! And now, I need more!!!

Content: Clean. Hidden identity, marriage of convenience, some very mild suspense/peril. Nothing more than some sweet kisses.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Cara Putman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Y’all this is such a fun book. It has it all! A dashing rogue. Almost a marriage of convenience. A
sweet romance. Characters I couldn’t help rooting for. And such an authentic voice for the early 1800s in one of my favorite English towns — Bath. I loved this book — it was so fun and such a great read!!! I highly recommend this Regency novel!

[Joy Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Grace Hitchcock’s writing. It’s witty and fun and makes me grin like an idiot! She had me laughing right from the start with this one. Maybe it’s the fact that Vivienne is a writer that endeared her to me… I just love an authoress for a heroine! And Sir Sebastian!! Insert swooning here! And it was wonderful to have Tess pop in. (I look forward to her book next!!) I enjoyed every page of this book, even if I was shaking my fist at the villains (yes, that’s plural).

I do wish the epilogue had been a bit longer and wrapped up some details I felt were lacking at the end. But it was at least satisfying with what few details we got.

This one just might be my favorite of the series!

I received a complementary copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

[The Bookworm Girl Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, this book was SO fun!!! If you like regency stories with funny moments, piping romance, and a well-developed marriage of convenience, this book is for you.

I loved how Grace integrated the reader so effortlessly into the Regency setting. Oh my goodness, you'll be gripped from page one. Let me just say...the romance!!! It was so well plotted and included both heartfelt and swoony moments. I loved how each character felt intrigued by the other and fell for each other. It was a slow-burning romance, as in they waited to confess their feelings to each other, but their adoration for each other was perfectly timed. As always, I'm a sucker for a good marriage of convenience. I love how Grace wrote this book!

I did feel a bit confused sometimes at the beginning of the story, but as I got into the story, this improved. Also, I feel that the two main characters could have been just a bit more unique, but that's just my opinion. Other readers may feel differently, and it could just be me! My opinions are fallible, and someone else may view the book differently.

Finally, I appreciated the dedication to faith content. This was well-written and so authentic. I loved this part of the story, and it warmed my heart, especially when the two characters encouraged each other through biblical messages.

What a wonderful story, and stay tuned for sneak peeks of this book in reel recommendations!

Happy reading,
Bethany the Bookworm Girl

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Kiss a Knight had everything I love in a historical romance. The wit and playfulness of Vivienne and Bash had me laughing many times throughout the story. The building romance was portrayed in a way that it made it swoon worthy and there was tension due to many circumstances.

Mrs. Larby, Bash's grandmother, was so fun. I loved her attempt to push Vivienne and Bash into displaying their affection for each other, even if it wasn't so. There were a lot of prayers said, and scriptural passages included which made the story even more endearing. The descriptions of the countryside and the Larby Castle, brought the story to life. The adventures, lingering secrets, and Bash's courage and enduring qualities made him likeable, despite the secrets.

I read the book in one sitting until early morning. Be sure to schedule enough time, because you won't be able to put it down. It is such an intriguing story taking you back to the days of knighthood. I was still reflecting back on the story after I turned the last page. Highly recommended.

I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful regency adventure with romance, a noble hero and a spunky bookish heroine! A marriage of convenience with noble goals, an ailing grandmother, a sweet stable boy, loyal friends, a job involving secrecy for the crown, kidnapping, plot twists, all told with humor and witty banter. Perfect, loved it!

The story of Vivienne Poppy, the highwayman, and Sir Sebastian Larkby, is delightful!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and Net Galley. All opinions are my own.

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this story! From beginning to end I was immersed in the pages and read it in one day. There are so many swoony moments and the fact that Vivienne writes a book based on it all it is genius. Regency at its finest with the streets of Bath, fencing, pretentious balls, to the beautiful rolling country side of England. Grace Hitchcock is supreme with the regency period and has mastered the skill of writing and story telling. The witty banter and humor will have you rooting for Evie and Bash from the beginning. Many times I found myself laughing out loud from Evie’s antics or them besting each other in wit. As every good story has evil and greedy men bent on taking what they fill entitled to, this book has two of them engulfed by their own gain. There is an abduction from a mysterious, handsome, highwayman with a secret life of prestige that incites fear and longing. Fast pace action with twist and turns you don’t see coming will have you on the edge of your seat. Each character is well written, it’s like you’re there living out the story with them. I am totally enchanted with this book and must have it for my library. Grace Hitchcock is the Jane Austen of days long ago.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Becky of Becky's Bookshelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Kiss a Knight by Grace Hitchcock is book number two in A Novel of Best laid Plans series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. Vivienne Poppy has a plan to escape her brother and a horrible arranged marriage. She is going to use her writing pseudonym Lady Larkby until she discovers that is a real name Sir Sebastian Larkby is a Yeoman of the Guard and recently knighted. When he discovers Vivienne, he is not sure what to do. Especially since his grandmother is so excited, he has taken a wife.

I thoroughly enjoyed this Regency Romantic Comedy! What a delightful story that starts out with a bang and had me hanging on each word until the end! Watching Vivienne and Sebastian both go outside their comfort zone with each other, grow as characters, and discover their hearts was a delight! They both had great chemistry, banter, and sweet spirits. The Regency setting was fantastic with wonderful historical details that made the story come alive. I could not put this one down!

I loved the romance, setting, faith elements, humor and chemistry between Sebastian and Vivienne. To Kiss a Knight will be one of my favorite books of 2025! I very highly recommend!

I was given a copy and not required to write a positive review!

[Bethany Meadows · Rating 3 out of 5]

For fans of rollicking and witty regency romance. A lighthearted story with Princess Bride vibes.

When a authoress meets a highwayman, she finds herself entangled in a tale much like one she would pen. Circumstances envelop them and a marriage of convenience seems the best option. A knight, a female author, and a meddling grandmother? What could go wrong?

Personally 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️. I wasn’t particularly invested in the story. Very clean, lighthearted—just not the type of regency that I typically read. Thanks to the publisher for giving me an e-arc to read and review.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an Advanced readers copy to review, but all thoughts and opinions are my own!

This was by far my favorite Grace Hitchcock Book. I stayed up late reading this book which I haven’t done since I was a child! This book was fantastic.

Vivienne, is an author on the run. Sebastian is a knight for the Prince Regent. Lies, deception, and adventures, this book has it all! This book also had some hilarious things, at one point I laughed so hard I was crying!

The worst part of this book is that the story is over! I need more about Sebastian and Vivienne. I need to see what happens to them next! I read the last page and couldn’t believe it was done!

This book is absolutely fantastic I highly recommend it!

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really have enjoyed this series by Grace Hitchcock! If you haven't read her you need to add her to your TBR list. She somehow finds a way to make you chuckle in a story while swooning at the same time. One of my favorite tropes is marriage of convenience and To Kiss a Knight goes above and beyond to meet this trope!

I really enjoyed the characters in this story. Vivienne is an authoress who has run away from her brother to escape a marriage to a horrid man (seriously he is the absolute worst!) She has taken on the name of Lady Larkby not thinking of the repercussions in doing so. Sebastian Larkby who has a dual personality as the Highwayman has kidnapped Vivienne and is captured by her from the start.

I absolutely enjoyed seeing some past characters and Sebastian's grandmother was perfection. I adored her. This is such an enjoyable story. There is plenty of swoon-worthy moments and a bit suspense as well. Overall I really enjoyed the story and cannot wait for the third book. Although this is part of a series, it definitely can be read on its own but its so much better when you know some of the side characters to begin with. This is a must to add to your lists!!

I received a copy of this book for review. All views expressed are my own.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Kiss a Knight is the third book I have read written by Grace Hitchcock, and she has now become an instant read for me. This book was so hilarious and well-written, it was such a pleasure to read. The book sucked me in from the start and now that it is over, I’m a little sad to say goodbye. This will be a re-read for sure. 

The character development was great. I loved watching Vivienne writing and trying to find herself out of different predicaments and seeing Sir Sebastian sweep in to save her. Watching Vivienne deal with anxiety and the way her stepbrother is treating her is heartbreaking. Very evident of the times. Sebastian was an interesting character with lots of layers. We meet him as the highwayman robbing a stagecoach, to later find out he was sent to do that on an assignment. Sebastian is a very caring, God-fearing man. We find out he is very loyal to the Prince Regent. 

The setting and plot were great. I loved being in the Regency era, Attending Balls and fencing matches. I enjoyed the marriage of convenience trope with the meddling grandmother. It made for some great humor. However, when the cousin swoops in from nowhere to steal the inheritance and sends grandmother to the asylum, I was not happy. In the end, everything works out. 

The romance aspect was low spice and perfect, just the way I like it. There were a few passionate kisses, but nothing over the top. 

Grace Hitchcock did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book. 

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

England 1813

Charming!

Such a fun way our hero and heroine meet...Sir Sebastian Larkby posing as a highwayman abducts Vivienne Poppy when she's unexpectantly in the carriage that is his target in service for the Crown Prince. Of course, Sir Larkby can't reveal his true identity and the fun continues from there.

My favorite character was perhaps Grandmother. What a great part of the novel.

My gratitude to the author and publisher for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Jackie G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace Hitchcock has done it again! Book 2 of Best laid plans will draw you in with Vivienne's call to freedom from her evil stepbrother in hopes of living a quiet life being a famed author. Escaping danger, meeting a dashing highwayman, and finding love in a most unlikely place.An adventure worthy Lady Larkby's (Vivienne's nom de plum) lastest novel. It is a must read!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A regency romance that will sweep you off your feet!

Vivienne is fleeing an unwanted arranged marriage when her getaway coach is stopped by a bold and dashing highwayman. An authoress who writes under a pseudonym, she is shocked to find that she has unwittingly stolen an identity. Can a facade born of convenience, lead to lasting love?

Delightful regency romance, with a riveting plot, and enchanting characters, it combines the best tropes in this charming rom-com. Vivienne is a woman with a plan, she is quick thinking and industrious but isn't immune to her imagination getting ahead of her. She is genuine and has a big heart, instantly loving Bash's feisty grandmother, seeing her as family. Bash is everything a knight should be, dashing and honorable, seeking the most noble of outcomes. I liked how he is there for Evie when she needs him, protecting her from brigands and from the wagging tongues of society. Grandmother Larksby is hilarious, and mischievous in her often-under-estimated old age. Charlotte, Muriel, and Tess are wonderful friends to Evie.

Overall, a charming regency rom-com, with a spunky, book-loving heroine and a noble knight. A full cast of characters, wonderful plot, and witty dialogue. Solid clean romance, with strong themes of faith and trusting God. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this sparkling addition to the Best Laid Plans series. The cleverly designed, perfectly balanced storyline roped me in immediately and kept me bound to the pages all the way to the satisfying ending. The compelling cast of characters, main and supporting, is cleverly developed and unforgettable, even those who are not very likeable. Author heroine Vivienne "Evie" Poppy and honorable knight Sir Sebastian "Bash" Larkby easily made my list of favorite fictional couples. Several entertaining, laugh-out-loud situations arise thanks to Evie's insatiable curiosity. These scenes, plus the witty verbal exchanges between Evie and Bash, enrich the story and make these characters even more endearing. The beautifully sketched historical setting provides a wonderful backdrop to the enchanting narrative. I wholeheartedly recommend this sweet escape into the Regency world which will entertain and delight you with intrigue, humor, romance, secret identity, and danger.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Alda Delicado · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was mostly a good book, but the middle part was a bit tiresome. I really hate it when the heroes are fighting just because they don't speak to each other. It was mostly needless for the plot.

[Faith Lund · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had one of the best beginnings ever written! Vivienne wakes up in the arms of a highwayman who is really a knight in disguise! The banter, the romance, all of it was just Wow! Sir Sebastion aka Bash was absolutely dreamy. Grace Hitchcock is the Queen of romance! Can't wait for Tess' story next!

[Debra Slonek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Vivienne and Sebastian’s story. Each found themselves using aliases in order to keep their livelihoods alive. Their aliases led to some complications, sticky situations and much humor. I loved the grandmother in this story and would enjoy being a part of her family.

Vivienne’s insatiable curiosity caused her to get into some rather amusing predicaments. I laughed out loud, more than once. This book was so much fun to read.

I love when books are populated with characters who love reading and writing, who look to books as a source of comfort and entertainment. Books are treated as treasures and have a place of importance in the lives of the characters and in this wonderful story.

This is a book for book lovers and I love books. Therefore, this book is definitely for me!

I received copies of this book from Kregel Publications through AustenProse and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine.

[Jessica Turbiville · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a grand adventure that Grace Hitchcock takes her readers on! I thoroughly enjoyed this fun, daring book. I love to read light-hearted romantic adventures. To Kiss A Knight is delightfully entertaining and engaging.

I highly recommend this clean, Regency romance, sprinkled with verses to help her characters and us remember Who to turn to when the way forward is dark.

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Crissy Loughridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much!! I started reading it thinking I would just get a few chapters in to get a feel for the story. Ha! Sometime in the middle of the night I finally forced myself to put it down, but I finished this book in a day - I could not stop reading! The story is fun and engaging and just plain unputdownable! Highly recommend!

[Paty · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a charming, light-hearted and inspiring historical romance! It was such a delight reading it! The book kept me intrigued, swooning, and laughing out loud at times. So much so, that I had a hard time putting it down!
Let’s say there is a noble knight who disguises himself as a highwayman thief to accomplish a secret mission given to him directly by the Prince Regent. Add to this a spunky heroine who is an authoress -escaping from a very unwanted marriage imposed by her stepbrother- who writes under the pen name that just happens to be the knight’s last name? Can you imagine the conundrum this will provoke? This is just a taste at the kind of adventurous story that awaits you!
The best thing about this book are the characters. Vivienne -Evie- Poppy is genuine and so unique. She is straightforward, sassy, bold and very kindhearted. The mischief that she gets into because of her particular personality is really delightful and endearing. Couldn’t help myself to literally laugh out loud quite a few times! She has a spunky personality that makes you smile. Sir Sebastian Larkby -or Bash the highwayman thief- is the perfect knight: honorable, loyal to the core, protective rescuer, and fearless at times (except when Evie or his grandmother’s life is at risk). His love of his grandmother melted my heart. So big, that he would go to the length of asking Evie to pretend a fake marriage with him in hopes of reviving his ailing grandmother. Also, Evie and Grandma’s relationship was so sweet, the way they instantly became friends. Grandma´s shrewd and mischievous matchmaking made me smile so many times. The dialogues and witty banter between Evie and Bash are so delightful. But what touched me deeper was the faith they shared. The way they naturally pray and put their trust in God was touching. I loved the biblical references the characters made here and there, and it didn’t feel preachy.
The plot is fast paced and has unique twists that will keep you engaged until the last page.
Including Tess as part of the story was great too! I love how Evie, Muriel and Evie have a strong friendship that makes them have each other’s backs.
Can’t wait to read Tess’s story next! Hopefully, will see more of Evie and Bash there. The ending and epilogue were too short for me, I needed more details. But the HEA is fantastic!
All in all, a delightful Historical Romantic Comedy that will charm you and inspire you! I think I liked this second book of the Best Laid Plans Series even more than the first! And I loved that one!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but was not required to write a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivienne Poppy is a young woman and orphan who writes novels using the nom de plume of Lady Larkby. Her evil stepbrother is trying to force her to marry a man that she finds contemptable. She runs away to live in the home that is her only inheritance and to support herself through her writing. She is kidnapped by a handsome highwayman along the way only to find out once she reaches Bath that there is actually a Sir Larby who everyone assumes is her husband. Sir Sebastian Larby’s dying grandmother has found out about Vivienne’s existence and is thrilled. Will pretending to be married to Sebastian solve her problems while keeping his grandmother happy?

My thoughts on this novel:
• This novel starts off with great exciting with Vivienne being kidnapped by a dashing highwayman. Things about him don’t add up and he rescues her in her time of need. They also share a passionate kiss before he leaves her at her home in Bath.

• This novel engaged me from the first page until the last. It was a quick read and a real page turner! Adventure sure seemed to follow Vivienne and Sebastian.

• I liked how Vivienne was an independent woman trying to support herself as an author. I loved her independence!

• This was a lovely historical romance. I felt the romance throughout the novel and was routing for the two main characters to get together.

• I like the trope of fake marriage and I really like stories with honorable men who work as highwaymen. Sebastian is a Yeoman of the Guard for the Prince Regent and uses his disguise as a highwaymen to take care of delicate matters for the Prince Regent.

• This is a regency historical romance and takes place in 1813 primarily in Bath.

• Vivienne has a tendance to get herself into scrapes that made me laugh out loud a few times. I liked the humor in this novel.

• I liked the Author’s Note at the end about the real locations and history in the novel.

• This is the second book in the “A Novel of Best Laid Plans” series. I read it fine as a standalone novel, but I definitely need to go back and read the first book in the series.

Overall, if you are looking for a light, romantic Regency historical fiction novel full of adventure, look no further than To Kiss a Knight by Grace Hitchcock. I need to read more novels by this author!

Book Source: Thank-you to @gracehitchcockbooks @kregelbooks @austenprose for the review copy of this novel as part of the Austenprose PR Tour

This review was first published on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2025...

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

“To kiss a knight is a proposition that I find I cannot refuse.”

Oh my, swoon! This book was so good! To Kiss a Knight is the second book in the delightful Best Laid Plans series & just as amazing as the first. I loved this humorous, hidden identity romance with an endearing authoress heroine, roguish highwayman, & noble knight, From the beginning, this book grabbed hold & didn’t let go.

Rather than marry an unwanted suitor forced on her by her step-brother, authoress Vivienne Poppy decides to run away to Bath. But, when her coach is held up by an intriguing highwayman, she finds herself robbed & kidnapped. There’s more to her handsome captor though than seems & he definitely provides a worthy subject for her writing. After several hilarious adventures, she finds herself dropped off on her doorstep in Bath where she later meets another handsome gentleman with the same name as her writing pseudonym Lady Larkby. While Vivienne thought she’d safely used a title of a family long dead, she’s shocked to find a young, attractive Sir Sebastian Larkby very much alive & definitely not her husband.

Yeoman of the Guard, Sir Sebastian Larkby is not married, but to protect the lady’s reputation & secret writing profession, he decides not to expose her. His dying grandmother has been begging him to marry & Sebastian sees an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone so to speak. He brings Vivienne home to meet his grandmother as his “wife,” but when all chaos ensues & her unwanted suitor shows up, things are about to get even more complicated.

I thoroughly loved this story! The witty banter, humorous situations, sweet romance, mystery, & endearing characters had me laughing, swooning, cheering, & quickly turning the pages. Vivienne’s POV was so much fun. As a writer, her descriptions & inner monologue made it all the more enjoyable. Sebastian is every bit the noble knight & I loved reading his POV too. Their chemistry was off the charts & I loved all the madcap situations they find themselves in. Vivienne’s charming friends were there as well to support & help her throughout. Sebastian’s grandmother is a delight & I enjoyed how she was constantly asking Vivienne & Sebastian to kiss.

This is definitely one story not to miss! Highest of recommendations for this book & the entire series. Can’t wait for the next book! I received an advanced copy from the publisher without expectation of a review. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You should know that I was born with an extra dose of curiosity. It has never been kind to me, and no matter how hard I try to tame it, I fail when it matters most.”

Ah, travel back to the merry land of England in Victorian times. Grace Hitchcock has captured the essence of the era well in her novel, To Kiss a Knight. All is genteel and well, unless one is…well, actually, one of several people in this book! The first is rather day-dreamy authoress Vivienne, who unexpectedly finds herself in a jam. Trying to escape an arranged marriage, her stagecoach is hijacked by a highwayman. She comes to consciousness, finding herself slung over his shoulder, traveling horseback. While looking for an escape, our intrepid heroine is thrilled for new ideas for her next book, which, of course, is written under a pseudonym, “Lady Larkby.” After being delivered home by a very kind highwayman (“Goldie the Highwayman,” though he prefers the name Bash), Vivienne begins to plan times for the community of Bath, to get to know her as her author alter-ego.

This is well and good, (and worth plenty of smiles) until the Highwayman also is found to have an alter-ego. His is Sir Sebastian Larkby, which would make him the husband of our authoress. And so, this lark of a tale gets more tangled. When Sebastian’s ill grandmother hears from a gossip that he has married, she rallies. What will happen to her health, precarious as it is, if she hears that it is all a ruse?

This novel has lots of Victorian atmosphere, many laughs, and of course, romance between two unlikely people, plus a dab of suspense. I enjoyed a few twists that Hitchcock threw in. I’ll be going back to read the first novel in the series, To Catch a Coronet, and I’ll be anxious for the third to come!

I received a copy of the book from the author and NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Some adventuring pays in dividends, and others in disaster.”- Bash

“After all, a fictitious wife required a fictitious romance.��

“A thief who cared for the poor and a lady’s honor was a conundrum.”

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

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A Knight to Remember!

Vivienne’s step-brother is trying to marry her off to a terrible man, Sir Josiah. It is 1813 England, and women don't have many options. But if she can make her way to the home her dad left her, along with the small amount of money she has saved from writing books, she could be safe. Viviene makes her escape in the dead of night, only to have her stage stopped and robbed by a masked highwayman. He then abducts her.

It was harrowing to be with the highwayman. But despite fighting it, Vivienne found herself attracted to him—in a small way. He was dashing, but although he brought her safely home, he robbed her, too.

To her horror, Vivienne discovers the pseudonym she has written under on her books, Lady Larkby, is part of a title still in use. To make matters worse, she meets Sir Sebastian Larkby, called Bash, at a party, and everyone assumes they are married.

As Sir Walter Scott said, "Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive," Vivienne must tell more lies to cover-up the initial one. She gets in deeper and deeper, and ends up telling Bash’s dying grandmother they are married.

Additionally, Sir Josiah has tracked her down, and is insisting she marry him, while he tries to take everything she owns. Not only must Vivienne defend her home, Bash must defend his from other dangerous sources, as well.

Vivienne finds herself in all kinds of predicaments in this delightful story. It is full of wit, humor, and adventure. I enjoyed the character’s faith that was woven throughout the book.

Once you start reading this, you will not want to put it down. This clean, five-star book will be enjoyed by fans of historical stories or well-written tales. You will not want to miss this!

Thanks to the author for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “To Kiss a Knight,” for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own.