Miss Davis and the Architect

Dazzling Debutantes #4

by C.N. Jarrett

A restless debutante. A widowed architect. A summer house party that could bring them together.

In this sweet and heartwarming Regency romance, a young woman struggles with sleepless nights while a devoted father longs for the wife he lost. Amidst the splendor of a country house party, can new love unfold?

She cannot sleep...
Jane Davis arrived in London for an exciting Season, but with her sister now married, she finds herself lonely and adrift. Restless and disappointed by the gentlemen she has met, she roams the halls at night—until an endearing little girl asks her the most unexpected Will she be her new mother?

He is haunted by the past...
For two years, Barclay Thompson has done his best to raise his daughter alone, all while navigating his unexpected ties to nobility. But the nights are long and filled with memories of the past—until he encounters a kindhearted young woman who brings warmth into his daughter's life and his own. He knows the circumstances of his birth will forever keep him on the fringes of society, and for her sake, he should walk away.

Yet love is not so easily denied. Can three lonely hearts take a chance on happiness and build a future together?

Miss Davis and the Architect is the 4th book in the Dazzling Debutantes Regency romance series. It can be read as a standalone book.

Genres: Historical Romance, Fiction, Regency, Historical, Historical Fiction, Romance

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 15, 2025

Reviews

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fourth book in the Dazzling Debutantes series is an absolutely charming and clean romance. I really enjoyed previous stories characters appearing throughout, and it was very delightful having children be seen and heard. It made it interesting and unique. It was entertaining to watch their romance unfold and become a beautiful love. I highly recommend reading!.

[Barbara Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Excellent Book!

"Miss Davis and the Architect" is Book 4 of the Dazzling Debutantes series, written so beautifully by C. N. Jarrett. This series follows a group of brothers and cousins who were a rakes until they met the women of their dreams, their soulmates, and became great men. Books 1 is about the Duke of Halmsely, book 2 is about Richard Balfour, Book 3 is about Richard's brother, Perry fine Balfour, and this 4th book is about Barclay Thompson, the illegitimate brother of Richard and Prescribe (Perry). This fourth book is so heartwarming, having its sad and happy moments. Thirty-two year old Barclay Thompson has had a rough life. His birth has always been that he was born without his mother being married, but he was told quite a different story growing up than what truly happened. He was raised by a loving mother, Aurora, and a loving Granfather, Tsar. He went to school and learned his Grandfathers of them career, that of an architect, a master builder. He married a beautiful Russian woman named Natal aya, and they had a beautiful baby girl named Tatiana. The descriptions of Natalya and Tatiana are breathtakingly gorgeous, with long glossy silvery hair and deep blue eyes. One day, when Tatiana is seven years old, her mother dies with a weak heart. Then two years later, when her father,Barclay , is 32, he is told the truth about who his biological father was. He was the philandering Earl of Saunton, or Satan, as his biological sons called him. Barclay's two older brothers want to meet him and invite him, Tatiana, and Aurora to the Baltimore' estate. Once there, Barclay meets Miss Jane Davis, the younger 18 year old sister of Emma from Book 3. With Emma and Perry now married and living in another city near her family's land, Jane is now alone at the young Earl of Saunton Richard Balfour's estate, the estate built by Barclay's Grandfather Tsar Thompson. She was invited to Richard's house, along with her sister Emma, and offered a Season in London, of which Jane was thrilled. While at the grand estate, Miss Jane meets the dashing architect, and falls instantly in love with both him and his nine year old daughter Tatiana. However, even though Jane and Barclay fall in love at first sight, there are still a list of reasons why Barclay is afraid to pursue or court her. This book has magnificent scenes of an outstandingly beautiful grotto, as well as descriptions of games, such as chess, Bowls, and Ninepins, that were played during the Regency era. I recommend you read this beautiful story and judge for yourself whether Barclay's list of reasons really holds water. Each chapter begins with a Jane Austen quote. I received an advanced reader's copy via BookSirens and this is my totally honest and voluntary review.

[Emily Pennington]

Repairing a Family . . .

Barclay Thompson’s grandfather asked him to join him and was introduced to Lord Richard Balfour, the Earl of Saunton. All three of them looked very uncomfortable. Then Lord Saunton announced that he and Barclay are actually brothers, the late Earl of Saunton was his Barclay’s real father -- and his grandfather had known that fact. They lied because it wasn’t comfortable releasing the truth that the Earl of Saunton seduced the young daughter of his architect and abandoned her to her fate. All these years, his grandfather has protected the family from society’s scorn. But Lord Saunton has offered to acknowledge their true connection now, revealing Barclay is the brother of an Earl. It will protect widowed Barclay, his daughter Tatiana, and his mother -- and society is much harder on women than it is on men. Their cousin is the Duke of Halmesbury and will sponsor Tatiana in society when that time comes.

Jane Davis watched the arrivals to the house party given by the current Earl of Saunton. Her sister Emma was newly married to Peregrine Balfour (“Perry”), but had delayed their departure to meet a new brother who had just been discovered by the Earl. When a handsome man stepped out of the next coach that arrived, Jane actually felt the energy and purpose the man exuded. He was as tall as the Earl who greeted him, but slender and built well. She was disappointed to see he was probably married as he helped a young woman from the carriage and lifted a little girl in his arms.

Because Jane can’t sleep at night, she went for a nap in the daylight and slept until it was getting dark. She mixed her dental elixir in water to rinse her mouth and was startled when a little girl asked what she was doing and asked to try it. Tatiana gave her name and told Jane the Earl was her uncle. So the man she saw earlier must be the Earl’s newly found brother. Jane told her the Earl’s son Ethan is her cousin, so they are distantly related. Then Tatiana asked if she would marry her papa. Jane explained it must be his decision when he is ready, and he will choose who to marry. Tatiana knew her papa was lonely, and she wants to see him smile again. When Jane and Barclay finally meet, it is hopeful they will find a connection with each other, as Tatiana has already decided Jane is the perfect mama for her. But Barclay is afraid he is too old for Jane or will bring her down in the eyes of judgmental society and he hesitates to ask her to marry him. With Fate and a ghost implying Jane is for him, will he wise up and let himself fall in love?

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this poignant second chance at love romance with its added age gap and house party tropes. I already knew the steamy version from the „Inconvenient Brides“ series by the author but wanted to read the sweet and clean version as well. The very well written and emotional plot and the endearing characters gripped me right from the start. A widowed man who gets a second chance at happiness and love, his daughter who longs for a mother in her life and a compassionate and loving debutante who instantly falls for the two of them. There is also a whole cast of wonderful side characters, most of whom are familiar if you have read the previous books. That’s why I recommend to read the series in order. The dynamics and bonds between all of them is heartwarming.

Months ago, Jane accompanied her sister Emma to London (book 3) for a season, but while Emma is now married to Perry, Jane is still waiting for a match for herself. So she stays with Richard, the Earl of Saunton, and his family while he hosts a house party at his country estate, but Jane has been unable to sleep at night since her arrival at his household.
Among the other guests is Barclay, Richard's older half-brother and by-blow of the late Earl. The widowed architect, who has a nine-year-old daughter and is shunned by society because he was born out of wedlock, is still mourning his late wife and has not yet adjusted to his new family circumstances.
When Jane and Barclay meet, they are immediately attracted to each other, but even though Barclay wants to find a new mother for his daughter, he doesn't think he's right for Jane. He's too old, a bastard and doesn't want her to be rejected by society too...

If you enjoy a heartwarming sweet and clean historical romance novel with lovable protagonists and tangible emotions, this book is for you!”

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful! This story is a battle between the head and the heart. Jane and Barclay met at Jane’s brother-in-law’s house party, and had an instant connection. Barclay, who was conceived out of wedlock, had just discovered that he was the older half-brother of the Earl of Saunton, and was publicly acknowledged by him. Now two years after his wife’s death, he was at his new family’s house party with his nine year old daughter, who was asking him for a new mother, and his own mother who was pushing him to remarry. Meanwhile, Jane’s sister had just married the earl’s younger brother and moved away, leaving Jane reeling and desirous of her own love match.
Barclay was clearly drawn to Jane, as she was to him, but his fear of societal complications due to his illegitimacy and the fourteen or so year age difference between them kept getting in his way. It did not help that there was a widow with designs on him and a young landowner trailing after Jane. Even though I knew there would be a happy ending, I often found myself shaking my head and gritting my teeth. I loved the touch of the supernatural with multiple visits from Natalya, and Jane’s coffee addiction was both creative and significant. This is an emotional tale filled with dynamic characters, convoluted familial ties, the prejudices of Society, a lot of soul searching, and I loved it!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ruth Coulson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Barclay Thompson is illegitimate, and that's a killer in Society in Regency times. His grandfather's standing, his own quality as an architect and his conduct as a man have saved him from too much opprobrium. When Lord Richard Balfour calls to acknowledge him as part of trying to right the wrongs of his - their - father, it seems that this connection may help the standing of his mother and eventually of his daughter who is motherless since the death of his wife.

It is the best facet of Barclay's character that he is constantly trying to do the best for his mother and daughter. This does seem to show him up as a bit weak and indecisive though, since he is acting against his heart in not declaring his love for Jane Davis. Not fair to her, the stain of illegitimacy, the difference in their ages; these are all excuses he makes to himself. Jane herself, has no doubts but is constrained by the way she has to conduct herself. Thus the story is about the difficulties imposed on a relationship by the social mores of the times.

Children are often unaware of the requirements society will later impose upon them. His daughter, Tatiana, has no doubt that Jane should be her new mother, but how to convince her father? Tatiana is the most engaging character in the book.

This is Book 4 of the Dazzling Debutants series by this author, but can be read without reference to the preceding volumes.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Pam Watmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jane Davis arrives in London for her "season" and is anxious to obtain a husband before returning home. She has been uninterested in the men she has already met and is getting disillusioned. Unable to sleep she wanders down to the library when everybody else is asleep. Sheets a nine year old girl who appears to be very young for her age who is hoping for her widower Father to remarry and decides that Jane is the one. Barclay Thompson has been widowed for two years and is till in morning but is attracted to Jane but feels she is unsuitable due to her age and innocence in addition to him being born out of wedlock and believes he should court an older woman who is more suitable to be a step mother, however his daughter does not like her and tells her Father so. It is interesting to read books in this era as it is so different to times today and has interested me enough to actually do some research of the Regency era. The daughter seems very opinionated for the times and her age and it is interesting to see how she reacts the different possibilities. Will she get her way in which step mother she will end up with or will she have to put up with the older uncaring woman? I have read all the other books so far in this series and cannot put them down although I am beginning to see the pattern in this series, it does not take away the enjoyment of these books.

[HfbR · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dazzling Debutantes series continues with book four, and this time it’s the turn of Jane Davis and Barclay Thompson. Barclay has recently found out that he’s the half brother of Peregrine and Richard Balfour, the Earl of Staunton, and he’s been invited to the Earl’s house party to get to know the family better. Jane is the sister of Emma who’s recently married Peregrine, and she’s staying with the Earl while preparing for a season. There’s an instant attraction between Jane and Barclay but he thinks he’s too old for her as she’s closer in age to his nine year old daughter …���….

I enjoyed this book, it’s good to catch up with some old characters again, plus it’s well written with accurate descriptions of Regency times. Barclay has faced challenges with being ‘born on the wrong side of the blanket’, a real issue in those days, and Jane too has problems. She’s been suffering with insomnia since staying with the Earl and it turns out her coffee habit is the culprit. Her withdrawal symptoms plus her rejection by Barclay really make you feel for her.

While it’s not essential to have read the first three books in this series, I think they too are well worth a read. It’s also a ‘clean’ story so no embarrassment likely if you recommend it to your mother-in-law!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 = rereadable
I enjoy this series. The characters are likeable, relatable, and well-developed.
There's only a bit over the restating that takes place in many Regency romances.

Excerpts from the official review:
Jane Davis arrived in London for an exciting Season, but with her sister now married, she finds herself lonely and adrift. Restless and disappointed by the gentlemen she has met, she roams the halls at night—until an endearing little girl asks her the most unexpected question, Will she be her new mother?

The little girl's father, Barclay Thompson, has done his best to raise his daughter alone, all while navigating his unexpected ties to nobility. But the nights are long and filled with memories of the past—until he encounters a kindhearted young woman who brings warmth into his daughter's life and his own. He knows the circumstances of his birth will forever keep him on the fringes of society. For her sake, he should walk away, all while navigating his unexpected ties to nobility. But the nights are long and filled with memories of the past—until he encounters a kindhearted young woman who brings warmth into his daughter's life and his own. He knows the circumstances of his birth will forever keep him on the fringes of society, and for her sake, he should walk away...

No spoilers! Except that no one gets kidnapped ;)

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fourth installment of the Dazzling Debutantes series brings a third brother, Barclay Thompson--the illegitimate son of the current earl’s cruel father--into the Earl of Staunton’s sphere of influence.

At the house party the earl and his countess are hosting, both Jane Davis, Lord Staunton’s sister-in-law, and Barclay felt their hearts know they were right for each other. Nine-year-old Tatiania concurred they were meant for each other, but neither Jane nor Barclay gave the little girl’s conviction the credit it deserved. They let reason and their view of circumstances dictate what could be life-altering mistakes. However, sometimes the heart will not be overruled, even if its course is not a straight line.

The novel presents the plight of unwed mothers and their offspring in the Regency period--an attitude that continued, unfortunately--into the modern age.

Barclay is particularly well-drawn—a man of integrity and deep loyalty. Jane emerges from her secondary role in Miss Davis and the Spare to be a compelling young woman with talent and compassion.

There is sufficient information to allow a reader new to the series to understand the relationships of the characters without boring those who have followed the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jerry Jares · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is not a terrible book, but it comes close to being one. There is too much description and internal angst. Although the couple is immediately attracted to each other, Barclay Thompson is fourteen years older than Jane Davis. There is a widow who is attracted to Barclay (and is of a similar age to Barclay), but she is not as interesting as the younger woman. Additionally, Tatiana, his daughter, is enamored with Jane and has bluntly told her father that she wants Jane to be her mother.

The discussion of coffee as an unsuitable drink for a woman in Victorian times, and how much Jane Davis enjoyed coffee, continued ad nauseam. However, the real problem is that neither main character is interesting. The only interesting aspect of Barclay is the information on how, as an illegitimate person, he managed to rise through the ranks of architects in the rigidity of Victorian society.

I really don't want to finish the book because nothing is hooking me into the story. I've read over half of this story and am thoroughly bored. The author began publishing in 2022, and this series started in 2024. I don't plan to read any more by this author.

Dazzling Debutantes
1. Miss Ridley and the Duke (2024)
2. Miss Hayward and the Earl (2025)
3. Miss Davis and the Spare (2025)
** 4. Miss Davis and the Architect (2025)

[Patti Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome story! This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. The author does an excellent job of filling in details of the previous books in the series and allowing the wonderful characters you met before make cameo appearances. The story begins with Barclay finding out he has a brother that wants to claim him when his father never acknowledged him. His Mother was seduced at a young age and had him out of wedlock. He agrees to go and spend time with this family and while there meets a charming young lady that is he finds out is his new sister-in-law. Jane the new sister-in-law finds Barclay handsome. She overhears a conversation between Barclay and his Mother, she insists that Barclay needs to find a new wife and mother for his young daughter. His wife has been gone for two years and has visited him in his dreams at night - his dead wife is also visiting his daughter and has picked out the replacement, Jane. Barclay fears the age difference and his illegitimacy will harm Jane and sets his sights on another. I loved the way Jarrett portrays the love and emotions Barclay and Jane face as they work through the many obstacles thrown their way.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leann Arave · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a charming story. Barclay is a widow with a 9yr old daughter. When he finds out he is the half brother to the Earl of Saunton. Barclay was shocked when he learned his father had not died at sea, but was instead a louse of a man that violated his mother when she was a young girl. He was also dealing with the loss of his beloved wife and caring for their daughter. He had a lot on his plate, but he drove me crazy. He could not make up his mind and acted immature.
Jane is visiting the Earl after attending the wedding of her sister Emma, (from the previous book). Jane on the other hand was young and yet had better common sense and maturity then Barclay.
I enjoyed the story for the most part, it was a little slow in the middle but the ending tied it all up very nicely. The side characters were engaging and added depth to the story. Tatiana, Barclay's daughter was a delightful "imp" of a girl. The romance was clean and no foul language, which I appreciate. I have enjoyed reading the books in this series and I am looking forward to the next installment. Each story can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading them in order.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Boluwatife Adefemi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, raw, and full of heart

Miss Davis and the Architect by C.N. Jarrett is so much more than just a Regency romance. It dives into love, loss, and the weight of society’s harsh judgments. Jane Davis steps into Barclay’s life—a grieving widower raising his daughter while still carrying the pain from his late wife’s story. The mother was seduced young and faced struggles that still haunt the family, showing how cruel and unfair society could be, especially to women.
Disclaimer!!!!
I received an advanced review copy for free. This review is voluntary

The novel doesn’t hide the tough realities—the loneliness of grief, the stigma around illegitimacy, and the hypocrisy that surrounds these “sins.” Jane’s presence offers hope and warmth, challenging the old rules and slowly building a family filled with trust and love.

Watching Jane, Barclay, and his daughter form bonds is honestly so touching. Their slow, gentle romance feels real and earned, wrapped in a story about healing and new beginnings. This book is a quiet but powerful celebration of love breaking through all the barriers.

[Margaret P Medberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightfully swoony Regency page turner. C. N. Jarrett has written a beautiful story about the young Jane Davis, a woman in her first season who meets the very sad widower architect Barclay Thompson at the Earl of Saunton’s house party. Barclay has only recently discovered that he is the Earl’s half-brother, and despite being an illegitimate child, he has grown up into a successful professional. Barclay and his mother and his adorable nine-year-old daughter Tatiana attend the Earl’s gathering with trepidation. Tatiana immediately becomes friends with Jane, who is more than happy to read to her. Barclay is attracted to Jane but feels he is too old for her and that she is too young to be Tatiana’s mother.

Jarrett handles the romantic tension in the story skillfully, and the novel is layered with lovely descriptions of the gardens and house. Tatiana is delightful in her attempts to get Jane and her father together, and there are even some lovely dream-like elements that make this a yummy book to read. It was very hard to put down and very enjoyable.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming story with likeable leading characters. No particularly big dramas, but plenty of misunderstandings caused by trying to be unselfish, considerate and kind. How refreshing! Underlying the book though are some difficult topics highlighting the social mores of the time and the censure and hypocrisy facing women who 'erred'. This author always manages to include hard issues whilst maintaining a light and easy reading style.

I gave 4 stars instead of 5 as I did find some bits a little repetitive and, although I loved the children, it was hard to reconcile their ages and actions at times. That said, I very much enjoyed the story and these niggles didn't really detract from a good read.

I was fortunate to receive a free advanced reader copy of 'Miss Davis and the Architect' and am pleased to have the opportunity to leave a voluntary review. C N Jarrett writes about a large extended family of characters and I'm always eager to hear more about them. She has a skilled way of writing stand alone books that weave into engaging series.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story of the Sauntons. Very well written, full of drama, action, love, pride, mistakes, romance, society, family, twists and turns. Each of these characters some old friends and some new friends, are crafted to fit the needs of this story. The story of Barclay and Jane will hold you till the very end of the journey. Barclay is the half brother of Richard but by society is called a bi-blow. Being this he has had to work around society to make a name for himself as a architect. Richard has asked him, his daughter and mother to a house party. Jane is there and is Richard's sister-in-law as Emma has just married Perry, Richard's brother. It's there that their love story starts and takes the long way to get to their happily ever after. Just love reading about this family and how far they have come and changed. Absolutely a great story and series. Would recommend to all.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Margaret]

Jane Davis is only eighteen, but she wants to find love like her older sister. At a family house party with guests, she may meet such a gentleman. Barclay Thompson is a respected architect and the illegitimate brother of the Earl of Saunton. He is still grieving over the loss of his wife two years before. Meeting Jane at the house party, he is instantly drawn to her beauty and kindness. His daughter, Tatiana, is insistent he should marry her, but he's fifteen years older and carries the weight of his illegitimacy. He denies his heart thinking an older woman would give more stability to his family in society. Tatiana never gives up in her belief that he and Jane are meant to be together. Barclay is a little frustrating, but I thought the book was very interesting in the character dynamics. This is one complicated family. Moves at a faster pace than I expected.
Kisses only.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksirens.

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barclay Thompson finds out he has a half-brother keen to acknowledge him and welcome him into the family fold and thus invites him to the house party. This changes Barclay’s life, along with his mother and Tatiana, his darling little precocious daughter. While at the house party, he meets Miss Jane Davis who is hoping to become betrothed before the end of the season and while she is several years younger than Barclay, there is a connection between the two. However, he constantly moves between she will be a good and mother for him and Tatiana to she would be too young for a mature widow with a daughter. Thank goodness his daughter is not so concerned for she feels that Jane would be perfect as her new mother!

A heartwarming story to be enjoyed on a lazy afternoon. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barclay Thompson has just discovered he is half-brother to Richard Balfour, Earl of Saunton. He, his mother, and his nine-year-old daughter are attending a house party at Richard’s estate. Jane attended her sister’s wedding and has stayed for the house party. The instant attraction between these two is obvious. Barclay believes his is too old for Jane, and fears her reaction to his history. Tatiana believes Jane is supposed to be her new mother. Will Barclay listen to Tatiana and Jane and put aside his fears? This is a wonderful story about building a family. Barclay is a bit overanxious and stubborn. Jane is sweet and determined. Tatiana is absolutely delightful and just as stubborn as her father. There are doubts, a bit of drama, humor, romance, and a happy ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Barclay Thompson, a well-respected architect, and a widower with a young daughter, has just been acknowledged by nobility and invited to holiday with his new brother, Lord Richard Balfour, the Earl of Saunton. While visiting his stepbrother's palatial home, Barclay is introduced to a very young lady, Miss Jane Davis, who has arrived in London for an exciting season of shopping for a romantic match. Their meeting alters Barclay's psyche in ways he can't deny and can't understand with his analytical mind. This story was fraught with doubt, misguided best intensions and needless heartache. But, I wouldn't have missed the end for anything. Sometimes the easiest answer is the best answer in life and with matters of the heart. Your heart accepts the truth, and your mind just has to catch up. This was a wonderful story with a great storyline. Great Read!!!!!

[Krisz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked the beginning, the ingenious ideas for the setting. Architect hero, admitted into a high class family. But soon the story stopped, as it was only a dwelling on whether to unite or not. No other story was behind, although the late wife as a ghost was an interesting one. Or there could have been a mystery of some sort, finding a message in the grotto, or whatnot.
I didn't like the repetitions (Jane is forever drinking coffee, or if she isn't, then thinking about it - same with strawberry water, ninepins being boring, and my pet peeve was "finding my Darcy" - once was cute, but it was mentioned at least 5 times!) The 4-yr-old Ethan behaved as if he was 9, the 9-yr-old Tatiana behaved as if she was 5 or 6.
Ps. Bought it as it is a known bestseller, kind of the only historical one on the 50 romance toplist on Amazon. I am disappointed. In a lot of things.

[Helen Causer · Rating 5 out of 5]

At a House Party, where Jane Davis was hoping to become betrothed, She meets Barclay Thompson, an architect several years her senior.
He is in mourning for his late wife, and his young daughter Tatiana, wants Jane as her new mother.

I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.


There is much toing and froing with Barclay thinking he is too old for Jane, and Jane being anxious regarding finding a match before the season is out.

The author had me on tenterhooks, and I struggled to put the book down.
I recommend this story to any fan of Regency life, and look forward to reading more from the author.

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found myself saying I have read something very similar before. The coffee addiction was the part I really remembered but other things were also familiar, but according to my records I hadn’t read it and the publishing date was this year. Anyway the story was good enough I continued reading it. The heroine was young but very much knew her heart. The heroine is just coming out of mourning for his late wife and had issues about his illegitimate birth and his age. Slowly they work things out thanks to the hero’s willful daughter. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Southern Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely story of the importance of family and connections. Jane, Emma’s sister from the previous book in the series, attends a house party and quickly becomes enamored of the Earl’s half brother, Barclay. He is a widow with a 9 year old daughter, and he feels he is much too old for Jane, as well as other complications. What I loved about the story is how he slowly comes to realize that the opinion’s of others don’t matter, but family is all important. Loved the tenderness and sweetness he showed his daughter and Jane. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Beverly · Rating 3 out of 5]

With each page I read, I became more enraged that Barclay was such a wishy washy, pathetic specimen of a man. He acted like a young child that can't choose. If he couldn't be brave enough to love again, then he deserved a loveless marriage with the grabby clutches of the widow!!! Jane and Tatiana had more common sense than Barclay and most of the other adults there. Smh. This was disappointing because of a lack of a spine in Barclay. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Becky Davison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a heartwarming, sweet story of prolonged grief, hope, and love. Barclay and Jane's journey towards each other was touching and heartfelt. Tatiana was a delightful addition, with her spunk and boldness, to the list of characters. The author has done a wonderful job of writing a story that was entertaining and charming from start to finish. I am loving this series! Looking forward to the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Davis and the Architect is Book 4 in the Dazzling Debut antes by C N Jarrett. Richard is still making amends for his rather "rakeish" younger days. He has gone to Barclay to bring his half brother into the family. This changes his life as well as his young daughter, Tatiana, and his mother, Aurora. But, it is yet to be determined if the change will include love. I believe that this book and entire series is so well written. Miss Jane Davis is a lovely character, but can she claim a stubborn man's heart? I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an enjoyable story. Jane is a sweet, young woman looking to start her forever while Barclay, a loyal middle age man, is still grieving the loss of his wife. It was fun to see how the author included Barclay into his new family and connections, and how it wasn’t completely smooth sailing. The grotto is definitely my favorite scene as it is a beginning and ending in many different ways. I’m looking forward to the next installment of Mrs. Brown and the Black Smith.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a cup of coffee can do!
Jane is still suffering from insomnia due to her coffee addiction. Barclay, another of Richard’s half-brother is invited to Saunton with his daughter Tatiana. After a chance encounter at night in the library, Jane and Barclay start meeting regularly whenever they can’t sleep. They feel attracted to each other but can Barclay free himself from the remembrance of his dead wife and open his heart to a new love?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.