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Weddings and Scandals #1

The Viscount's Promise: Regency Romance

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A mystery that surrounds Julianna’s family could lead her to the man that steals her heart. Miss Julianna Newton is struggling to return to a society that does not want her. A year after her brother’s death, she has been blessed with a kind sponsor, who helps her secure invitations to the most exclusive events of the London Season. Much to her surprise, she finds that one Lord Sharpe is determined to help her make the right acquaintances, due to a promise he made to her late brother, Francis. When Lord Sharpe and Miss Newton spend more time together, strange happenings occur, forcing them both to reconsider everything they thought they knew. Will they be able to find the truth, even though it is too late for Julianna’s brother? And will Thomas really allow Julianna to marry a gentleman who cares nothing for her, when his own heart is already filling with affection? If you like clean and wholesome, Regency romances with a twist of mystery and suspense, you will love The Viscount’s Promise.

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Published August 21, 2024

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About the author

Joyce Alec

94 books90 followers
Joyce Alec grew up in Colorado and graduated from college with a degree in business. After developing a passion for books, she spent countless hours reading a variety of genres, but fell in love with sweet, historical romances. Joyce’s passion for reading eventually cultivated into a love for writing, so creating Regency-era tales of love is a dream come true for her.

After planting her roots in Florida, Joyce found another passion: the ocean! In her free time, you can find Joyce at the beach with a big floppy hat, flip-flops, and a vanilla iced coffee in hand. She lives in the Sunshine State with her prince charming and wildly vivacious son.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
1,383 reviews18 followers
August 17, 2019
A historical romance and murder mystery all wrapped up in one. I thought this book was fun. A couple of well-timed twists kept me reading until I was finished.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.7k reviews358 followers
March 11, 2019
Francis Newton was the second son of a baron, on trial for murder. The verdict was that Francis was to be spared the gallows, but he would be incarcerated for a time and would never be able to return to society. But before everyone cleared out, Francis yelled his protest of the verdict and said that he was innocent, someone had set used him to take the blame. He turned to his former friend Thomas, Viscount Sharpe, and again said he was innocent – even though Thomas was the one who had found him standing over a body and holding a bloody knife. He asked him to find out why he was set up. He also asked him to care for his sister who would shamed by this. Although Francis had brothers, he knew they would not take care of her. Thomas gave his word and Francis pulled out a vial of poison and drank it in front of everyone, still declaring his innocence.

Thomas was in shock and just stood there. A kindly older gentleman told him he should leave, commended him for agreeing to care for Francis’ sister, and told him to come see him when the mourning year was over. He was Marquess of Thurston and would make sure Julianna was not barred from social events since he had some influence over the ‘beau monde’. He also mentioned that he did not feel Mr. Newton was truly guilty; something more was going on. True to his word, as soon as Julianna arrived in London, the Marchioness of Thurston, wife of the Marquess, had been sent to meet with Julianna as her sponsor. She had arranged for several dresses for Julianna, introduced her, and made Julianna ready for her Season in London.

At the ball, Thomas signed Julianna’s dance card and asked Lady Thurston if he could take Miss Newton to meet some acquaintances. As they walked, Julianna reprimanded him for not asking her first, as she did not wish to be spoken of as if she were not there. Suddenly a bearded man knocked into them hard enough that Thomas fell to the floor. Since all were unhurt, the man walked away without waiting for an introduction. So Thomas introduced Julianna to his acquaintances and she gained several more dance partners. While she danced with Lord Borden, he sat down and heard something crinkle in his pocket. It was a note stating Newton was innocent and there was more at stake than he knew! When Julianna returned to him, he showed the note to her and she immediately realized the bearded man must have slipped it in Thomas’ pocket! But why? Who was he?

Henry came into the drawing room, angrily asking why Julianna had to always be in his way. He was arrogant, cruel, and hateful to her, demanding she leave “his” house and telling her he never cared for any of his family members. In the midst of the fight, Thomas arrived and intended to take her to Lady Thurston for the remainder of her stay. But she refused and said she would avoid Henry. Lord Borden asked to call on her, and that would keep her out of Henry’s way. Her only regret was that she was beginning to wish it was Thomas who was courting her.

Thomas arrived the next day and told the butler he would wait until Lord Borden left. He approaching the drawing room’s slightly open door and heard laughter. But instead of being glad their relationship was proceeding well and he would likely be freed of taking care of her, he felt irritated and wanted to interrupt them! She would be gone from his life, his promise to Francis completed -- and a deep sense of disappointment overwhelmed him! Lord Borden stepped out and greeted Thomas. As they talked, Borden confided that he was going for the dowry! The lady herself held no interest for him! His courtship was merely a game to him to get the money for himself! As Thomas joined Julianna, he could not bring himself to tell her the truth about Borden’s intentions. Would she find out in time to refuse the man’s marriage offer? Would Thomas give any thought to the unusual feelings that were confusing him? And would he and Julianna discover who had given him the note and who had set up her brother as a murderer and thief?

This was such a good story! The mystery was well done and kept the reader on edge. In addition, we see Thomas and Julianna beginning to warm to the other while time runs out as Lord Borden pursues his courtship. Such an exciting story line, and many directions it can take! The twists and turns have only just begun as the hunt for the true murderer heats up! Don’t miss this one – it’s awesome!
Profile Image for Space Cowgirl.
4,133 reviews143 followers
August 14, 2019
His Word Is His Bond💕

Intrigue, Betrayal, Murder and Love💘 in Jolly Olde England.

Julianna Newton's brother, Francis, the son of a baron, is convicted of a murder he didn't commit, and is sentenced to prison time only because of his titled status. Yet at sentencing, he continues to protest his innocence, and charges his best friend, Viscount Thomas Sharpe, to care for Jullianna and find the real killer. Then Francis drinks a small bottle of poison, falling down dead.
Julianne gets her ton season, chaperoned by Thomas, who increasingly finds himself caring for her in his heart, while he is supposed to be finding her a suitable husband!

ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also got the book with KU.

Loved the book! It's an Intriguing story all the way through! This is a short but well written sweet romance as well as a murder mystery.
Profile Image for Jamie Bee.
Author 1 book117 followers
March 12, 2019
What a dramatic beginning for this book! We are placed in a courtroom where a man is being sentenced for murder. On the dock, the accused man proclaims his innocence and asks his friend in the courtroom take care of his sister. After exacting this promise, the accused then drinks from a vial and keels over dead. After a year of mourning has passed, this friend, Lord Sharpe, as well as a kindly marquess and marchioness, come to town to support this sister, Julianna, in a London season. Lord Sharpe has been troubled by the brother’s claim of innocence and is not quite willing to believe that his former friend is guilty. Will Lord Sharpe figure out the correct murderer who framed his friend? Will he fall for Julianna himself or help her to wed another man?

I found the character of Lord Sharpe to be an interesting one. He is not portrayed as the typical Regency romance hero, who can definitely be a little touchy-feely to appeal to modern readers. Instead, he is portrayed as stiff and formal at first, bringing to mind Mr. Darcy (although he is more willing to dance!). He’s one of the reasons I think the book should have been longer. It would have been more appropriate for him to gradually become more comfortable in Julianna's presence, and a longer book would have been needed for his character to relax. For a novella, this book has some surprising twists and turns. In fact, that’s the second reason why I think the book should have been expanded: to give more insight into thoughts, emotions, and events of the story.

I thought it odd that states that it takes place in “Nineteenth century, England” while the cover states it is a Regency; why not be specific if you are as on-point as Regency? The Regency period is a very narrow timeframe in English history and certainly not nearly as vague as the 19th century!

There are some issues with grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Surprisingly, even a character's name was misspelled. Sometimes the baron is either referred to as Baron Holland or Baron Hollard. There are some issues with word choice as well, as sometimes the same or similar words were used right next to each other.

Despite all that, this is a relatively well written short Regency suspense.

I did receive a free advance copy, but this did not affect my review.
4,890 reviews30 followers
March 9, 2019
Lord Sharp witnessed his friend Francis Newton take his own life after being convicted of murder which he strongly denied and ask Lord Sharp to take care of his sister. One year after Francis took his own life Lord Sharp goes to Miss Julianna Newton and told her he promised her brother to take care of her and he will. As she starts her first season Lord Borden starts to court her for her large dowry and she knows that but with the shame on her family she feels he may be her only choice. Lord Sharp starts to have feeling for her as well but they both are getting messages that Francis was innocent and there is danger about. Will they be able to find the truth and will they acknowledge their feelings for each other? They are both in for a big surprise having to do with Francis.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,593 reviews15 followers
March 11, 2019
This Regency romance mystery had plenty of intrigue. Thomas, Viscount Sharp promises his friend Francis who has just been sentenced to life in prison for a crime he claims he didn’t commit that he will take care of his younger sister Julianna right before Francis drinks poison to kill himself. One year later, Julianna goes to London for the season and while Thomas is escorting her a bearded man bumps into him and he discovers a note in his pocket that wants him to investigate the false crimes against Francis. Julianna’s selfish and cruel brother Henry tries to throw her out of the townhouse, while he is stealing from the ton. Thomas starts to have feelings for Julianna, but he hesitates to admit them until fortune hunter Lord Broden tries to claim her. The story comes to a head at the end and the truth is revealed.
Profile Image for Cindy Cooke.
522 reviews5 followers
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August 14, 2019
Sweet romance covered in scandal

Great storyline...middle brother is convicted of theft and murder and commits suicide rather than succumb to the sentencing. Oldest brother inherits title and lands, and youngest brother is whiny and ungrateful for what he receives from his father's will. Add to that a daughter who is distraught from losing both her father and her brother, as well as her good family's name in light of her brother's suicide, and you have the makings of a great story.
I received this book in a giveaway, and I loved reading it. The author has a great way of describing situations and attractions between the characters that keeps you reading far into the night. Looking forward to discovering more of her books; if this one is any indication, they're bound to be Goodreads, too!
4,465 reviews38 followers
March 12, 2019
The Viscount's Promise was a very interesting Regency romance. The heroine's brother is on trial for murder. Despite his claims of innocence, he is convicted. He begs Lord Sharpe to protect his sister and ensue she is not shunned by the ton. Upon securing this promise, Francis Newton commits suicide. After a year of mourning, Julianna comes to London where Lord Sharpe and the Marquess of Thurston ensure Julianna is not completely cut by the ton. Mysterious warnings that things are not as they seem and that danger still lurks are repeatedly presented to Julianna and Lord Sharpe. They are asked to prove that Francis was innocent. This is truly an original plot and kept me well entertained.
4,465 reviews38 followers
March 12, 2019
The Viscount's Promise was a very interesting Regency romance. The heroine's brother is on trial for murder. Despite his claims of innocence, he is convicted. He begs Lord Sharpe to protect his sister and ensue she is not shunned by the ton. Upon securing this promise, Francis Newton commits suicide. After a year of mourning, Julianna comes to London where Lord Sharpe and the Marquess of Thurston ensure Julianna is not completely cut by the ton. Mysterious warnings that things are not as they seem and that danger still lurks are repeatedly presented to Julianna and Lord Sharpe. They are asked to prove that Francis was innocent. This is truly an original plot and kept me well entertained.
40 reviews6 followers
March 30, 2019
This is a sweet, interesting romantic mystery. I loved this novella! The book starts out in the middle of a murder trial, and the entire novella continues with that same fast pace. This book is definitely not boring! It's a great mix of romance and mystery, as they race against the clock to discover who REALLY committed the murder before something dangerous happens to the family of the man convicted of the murder. It was nicely paced and I enjoyed that it was of shorter length. I feel Ms Alec covered everything that needed to be covered in a shorter length book. I recommend this novella!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,720 reviews39 followers
March 10, 2019
Guilty or innocent?
Thomas was in court the day Francis was convicted and that is where he made the promise to look after Francis sister Julianna. The twists in the story are outstanding and will keep you reading page after page. This is as much a mystery as a romance and when the villain of the story comes to light you will be surprised. Excellent writing, plot, and characters try this one you will be glad you did. I highly recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Profile Image for MoonGarden.
382 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2019
Murder and Mystery, Regency Love story

I couldn't really understand at all why Francis would kill himself! It wasn't a great way to start off, unless you are going for dramatic effect, but it wasn't believable. ... what followed however was a fun cat and mouse game of trying to find the real murderer and Thomas realizing he has romantic feelings for Francis's sister Julianna.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Laila Viking.
4,090 reviews30 followers
April 3, 2019
I liked this storyline, plot and twists a lot. It was an amazing read. The mystery, jealousy, sparks, attraction, drama, danger and emotional moments made it absolutely worth the read. Main characters are well defined and I liked their chemistry. I thought she was a bit naive but in a way that also suited her character.
No spoilers so I can only say that it is an entertaining and enjoyable read that I think is a must read if you like regency stories.
Profile Image for Teresa Bertolio.
638 reviews9 followers
March 11, 2019
I really enjoyed this story! I thought the author did an excellent job bringing the characters to life! I enjoyed the witty interactions between characters. If you love happy ever after stories, this one is for you. Happy Reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Phylis Collins.
2,841 reviews8 followers
March 12, 2019
The characters are good-natured, the plot carries you on a journey of mystery, intrigue, murder, and with Twists and turns along the way to keep you engaged right to the end. Worth your time.
My free opinion. Thanks.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.1k reviews8 followers
March 14, 2019
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A clean, wholesome, Regency romance with a twist of mystery and suspense a well-written story. There are twists, turns, suspense, drama, an enemy closer than Julianna's family knows, a surprise, and romance. I recommend this book.
56 reviews1 follower
March 14, 2019
I love this book, it was full of mystery, romance, humor and suspense. The characters are engaging, memorable with a strong inter strength that carries them through troubling times. This book will hold your interest till the very end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Fran Rice.
276 reviews
March 16, 2019
A HEA with great twists and turns.

Thomas had promised Francis that he would look after his sister, Julianna, when Francis was found guilty of murder. After the year of mourning, Thomas started helping Julianna in society to help with the blemish on her good name. Will he help get her married off to someone else, or will he want her for himself?
86 reviews
March 25, 2019
A Romance with a Mystery with twists that will spin you around! A disgraced family with a season in London. Can she find a suitable husband with her current circumstances? A mysterious stranger that seems to want to help. A well written book with believable characters. The twists are unexpected!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
16.5k reviews152 followers
April 3, 2019
She is about to return to society but they do not want her. She has someone who is helping her. There is a mystery surrounded brother death. Can they find out? Are they destined for each other? Follow them as they try to find out

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Zeinab Dh.
1,629 reviews37 followers
May 25, 2019
I chose to read and review this book. I enjoy reading this genre a lot. This was a well-written book. a sweet clean mysterious suspenseful book. It has a lot of things that kept me reading like drama suspense action romance surprises in each chapter. I liked the interactions between the characters very well done. I RECOMMEND IT
Profile Image for Courtney.
4,297 reviews
August 8, 2019
Okay

I don't know if it's just because I had such a connection to a previously read book, or if I just am not in the mood for a novel such as this one- but I did not feel the pull to this novel that I normally do when I am reading a new novel. I will definitely have to try again later.
Profile Image for Danielle Carpenter.
1,816 reviews11 followers
September 6, 2019
I enjoyed this story very much. The characters are lovable and caring. Those helping Juliana with her coming out after her brother's suicide in the courtroom seem willing to help her. Lord Sharpe who made a promise to her brother before he died, follows through a year later. There is one big mystery to solve and many twists and turns, making this story well written.
1,554 reviews7 followers
February 21, 2023
more like 3 1/2 stars

This was a good enough story I suppose except it was not proof read very well, not polished at all. Well I picked it up for free so that is okay. I have found this standard to be in all of this authours books I have read. Not inclined to read more. Though I will say this book was clean.
Profile Image for Liz.
267 reviews5 followers
March 9, 2019
Loved it. Historical romance mystery. Julianna is mourning the loss of one brother and the scandal surrounding his death

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
810 reviews5 followers
March 10, 2019
A fantastic short story that will kept reading until the end.
Fantastic characters... wonderful plot... and a surprising end...
A story for all that love mystery and sweet romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
640 reviews5 followers
March 10, 2019
Really enjoyable regency romance. Contains everything you need. Romance, Mystery, Danger and a happy ending. What more could you want.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Dan Hunt.
69 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2019
A totally delightful story that will keep the pages turning! The happily-ever-ending and well drawn characters also help make the reading experience an enjoyable endeavor. Read and enjoy!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
314 reviews
March 11, 2019
I enjoyed this story that is full of surprises, intrigue, and heartbreak as wel! as love found.
Truths will be revealed that you will not see coming!!??

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
697 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2019
A regency romance combined with mystery, intrigue, heartbreak, love and surprises. A truly delightful story which will keep your interest to the end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews

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