What do you think?
Rate this book
Hearts of Harewood #4
A Secret Correspondence
Her letters revealed everything but the thing he most needs—her name.
Samuel Harding has a flair for fashion, a talent for flirtation, and a reputation as Harewood's most charming dandy. But beneath the cravats and clever repartee lies a heart recently bruised from watching the woman he loved marry his cousin. With his pride wounded and his faith in love faltering, Samuel has found unexpected solace in a series of anonymous letters—witty, wistful, and altogether unlike anything his well-ordered world has ever offered.
What began as a curiosity has become a refuge, the secret correspondence revealing more of his true self than he ever intended to share. And the more he writes, the more he falls—for a woman he’s never met… and who may not be a stranger at all.
Book four in the Hearts of Harewood series, A Secret Correspondence is a clean Regency romance with secrets, mystery, and finding joy where it's least expected.
Samuel Harding has a flair for fashion, a talent for flirtation, and a reputation as Harewood's most charming dandy. But beneath the cravats and clever repartee lies a heart recently bruised from watching the woman he loved marry his cousin. With his pride wounded and his faith in love faltering, Samuel has found unexpected solace in a series of anonymous letters—witty, wistful, and altogether unlike anything his well-ordered world has ever offered.
What began as a curiosity has become a refuge, the secret correspondence revealing more of his true self than he ever intended to share. And the more he writes, the more he falls—for a woman he’s never met… and who may not be a stranger at all.
Book four in the Hearts of Harewood series, A Secret Correspondence is a clean Regency romance with secrets, mystery, and finding joy where it's least expected.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2025
140 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
August 17, 2025
“Marguerite needed to reach the kissing gate before Mr. Harding did, or her secret would be out. That was not an option.”
Secret letter writing, hidden identities… what could possibly go wrong (or right, depending on how you look at it!)
Samuel Harding may be Harewood’s most charming dandy, but behind the wit and impeccable cravats lies a wounded heart. When anonymous letters begin arriving, Samuel finds more honesty and hope in the ink on those pages than in any ballroom flirtation. The deeper he falls for his mysterious correspondent, the closer he comes to discovering that the woman behind the words may not be a stranger at all.
A Secret Correspondence (book four in the Hearts of Harewood series) delivers everything I crave in a Regency: swoony romance, a protective hero, sparkling banter, secret letters, a thread of suspense, and a mystery that spans social classes. Kasey Stockton wove it all together so beautifully—the romance is dreamy, the mystery kept me hooked, and the emotional payoff was perfection. This one absolutely BLEW. ME. AWAY.
If you love clean historical romance, bump this straight to the top of your TBR—you’ll thank me later.
Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger Notes: death of loved ones (off page), mild suspense/peril, romance = kisses only.
Secret letter writing, hidden identities… what could possibly go wrong (or right, depending on how you look at it!)
Samuel Harding may be Harewood’s most charming dandy, but behind the wit and impeccable cravats lies a wounded heart. When anonymous letters begin arriving, Samuel finds more honesty and hope in the ink on those pages than in any ballroom flirtation. The deeper he falls for his mysterious correspondent, the closer he comes to discovering that the woman behind the words may not be a stranger at all.
A Secret Correspondence (book four in the Hearts of Harewood series) delivers everything I crave in a Regency: swoony romance, a protective hero, sparkling banter, secret letters, a thread of suspense, and a mystery that spans social classes. Kasey Stockton wove it all together so beautifully—the romance is dreamy, the mystery kept me hooked, and the emotional payoff was perfection. This one absolutely BLEW. ME. AWAY.
If you love clean historical romance, bump this straight to the top of your TBR—you’ll thank me later.
Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger Notes: death of loved ones (off page), mild suspense/peril, romance = kisses only.
August 20, 2025
“She laughed, unable to hold the sound in. It released a glowing feeling in her chest, something she had not had in quite some time. When she glanced at Mr. Harding, he was not holding back his grin.”
This book is absolutely amazing and it completely stole my heart. This story is beautiful, sweet, touching, fun, exciting, suspenseful with a dash of mystery which I loved.
This book had me smiling so soo much. It had my heart racing, I was swooning, and then that happily ever after melted my heart!
I have loved Samuel all throughout this series, and reading his happily ever after was so exciting. A really fun aspect to his story are the letters! He is writing to an unknown lady who he has fallen for. I loved their sweet relationship through letters and it was so fun watching him discover her identity! I absolutely love her!!! These two characters are perfect for each other, and I loved how they find home in one another!
The mystery element was fantastic, it made the story extra exciting! I really could not put this book down. I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning because I had to know what would happen next.
Kasey has written another beautiful book in a beautiful series that is a favorite. This is a book that I will come back to and reread again and again! Anytime I think about this story, I can’t help but smile!
If you enjoy Regency romances, you’re going to absolutely adore these incredible characters, and their beautiful story!
Read for:
💌The letters
💌Secrets and a mystery
💌Swoony love story
💌Incredible characters
💌Cameos from the other couples in the series!
💌Gorgeous setting
💌Beautiful writing
💌A story that’ll make your heart very happy!
💌Wonderful series finale!
.
.
.
Thank you so much to the author for the arc copy, all opinions are my own.
Content: kissing only, some danger
This book is absolutely amazing and it completely stole my heart. This story is beautiful, sweet, touching, fun, exciting, suspenseful with a dash of mystery which I loved.
This book had me smiling so soo much. It had my heart racing, I was swooning, and then that happily ever after melted my heart!
I have loved Samuel all throughout this series, and reading his happily ever after was so exciting. A really fun aspect to his story are the letters! He is writing to an unknown lady who he has fallen for. I loved their sweet relationship through letters and it was so fun watching him discover her identity! I absolutely love her!!! These two characters are perfect for each other, and I loved how they find home in one another!
The mystery element was fantastic, it made the story extra exciting! I really could not put this book down. I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning because I had to know what would happen next.
Kasey has written another beautiful book in a beautiful series that is a favorite. This is a book that I will come back to and reread again and again! Anytime I think about this story, I can’t help but smile!
If you enjoy Regency romances, you’re going to absolutely adore these incredible characters, and their beautiful story!
Read for:
💌The letters
💌Secrets and a mystery
💌Swoony love story
💌Incredible characters
💌Cameos from the other couples in the series!
💌Gorgeous setting
💌Beautiful writing
💌A story that’ll make your heart very happy!
💌Wonderful series finale!
.
.
.
Thank you so much to the author for the arc copy, all opinions are my own.
Content: kissing only, some danger
August 21, 2025
Another book that I've been highly anticipating this year has released! Yay! And I LOVED it! This is book #4 and I loved how the author set it up at the end of the previous book. You can read this book as a standalone, you can read any of them as standalones, but I recommend reading them all. They're full of wonderful characters, great plots, sweet and swoony romance, and endings that will leave you smiling. If you haven't read the previous book, no worries, because the author does give us that set up at the beginning of this book. That set up though, definitely added to this being an anticipated read for me. When Kasey Stockton announced the release date for this one, I may have squealed. Hee hee!
For me, it definitely lived up to the hype I had created for it! I always love a good secret correspondence trope. And these two main characters are fantastic. The chemistry was palpable and a lovely slow-burn build up! And add in some mystery and a touch of suspense, you'll be turning those pages quickly trying to figure out the whodunnit and hoping that Samuel can discover everything quickly. This one would get more than 5 stars if I could rate it that! But I will give it allllll the heart eyes for how much I loved it! *Happy Sigh*
Skip watching your favorite tv show or movie and pick this one up instead. You'll find yourself on an adventure for love!
Content: Clean. Some very mild moments of peril. A couple sweet kisses and nothing further. No language.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
For me, it definitely lived up to the hype I had created for it! I always love a good secret correspondence trope. And these two main characters are fantastic. The chemistry was palpable and a lovely slow-burn build up! And add in some mystery and a touch of suspense, you'll be turning those pages quickly trying to figure out the whodunnit and hoping that Samuel can discover everything quickly. This one would get more than 5 stars if I could rate it that! But I will give it allllll the heart eyes for how much I loved it! *Happy Sigh*
Skip watching your favorite tv show or movie and pick this one up instead. You'll find yourself on an adventure for love!
Content: Clean. Some very mild moments of peril. A couple sweet kisses and nothing further. No language.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 21, 2025
This is the 4th book in the series and after reading book 3, I couldn’t wait for Samuel’s story! This story does work as a standalone but I highly recommend reading at least book 3 before this one. I absolutely loved this story! It was so fun! After Samuel’s heartbreak in book 3, it was nice to have him find his match. I liked the mystery leading up to who was corresponding with him. I liked that he didn’t find out right away and in fact thought it was someone else. Spoiler alert for who it was: it was Marguerite. I loved her! She figures out Samuel is her secret corespondent very quickly but doesn’t tell him. She has a mysterious past and starts getting letters of a threatening nature. Samuel and others help her with keeping her safe. I loved watching Samuel and Marguerite’s relationship grow! They are so sweet! Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
August 14, 2025
What an amazing story! An exchange of anonymous letters over a period of time reveals the hearts of two lonely people who were made for each other. Unfortunately they don’t know who each other is. Eager to marry and start a family Samuel thinks he’s figured it out and pursues the woman he’s fallen in love with. But is it really her? Or is he mistaken? Only time will tell.
This is a story of hidden identity, sweet friendships and betrayal. It’s got witty banter, swoony moments, mystery, danger and suspense.
You’re in for a treat with this one. You’ll be kept guessing until the end.
This is a story of hidden identity, sweet friendships and betrayal. It’s got witty banter, swoony moments, mystery, danger and suspense.
You’re in for a treat with this one. You’ll be kept guessing until the end.
August 19, 2025
A SECRET CORRESPONDENCE
by: Kasey Stockton
@authorkaseystockton
•I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Her letters revealed everything but the thing he most needs-her name...
“Unrequited love was a devil of a thorn, but Samuel Harding was determined to remove it
from his side forthwith.”
-A SECRET CORRESPONDENCE, is a dear Regency romance filled with secrets, mystery, and finding joy where it’s least expected. I thoroughly loved the delightful quick wit, charm, swoony moments,loveable/endearing characters within, a mysterious villain, a good does of thrilling suspense and danger. This story immediately intrigued me right from the start and captivated my full attention along the heartwarming/emotional journey, to such a satisfying and happy ever after. Aww, there is just so much goodness within. However, what I loved most of all about this lovely story was, seeing characters hold on to what matters most, how the power of love makes a difference through the good and hard parts of life, and the value of together than alone. This is a dear story part of a wonderful series that is worth the lovely heartwarming read, any day!🙌🏻📚🩷
“Love has a power greater than all the pride and difficulties in this world.”
•Content: no language, mild peril situation, gambling/debt of loved ones, death of parents in past, kisses only.
“Together, we could withstand anything. I want to do so with you. I want to be your steady companion, to be the reason you never feel lonely again.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“The road ahead would not be straight and simple, but it would be glorious, and she would not be taking it alone.”
#asecretcorrespondence
#authorkaseystockton
“The people who matter will continue to support you.”
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
“Together, they had found peace from their loneliness. More than that, they found love, support, and endless charity.”
by: Kasey Stockton
@authorkaseystockton
•I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Her letters revealed everything but the thing he most needs-her name...
“Unrequited love was a devil of a thorn, but Samuel Harding was determined to remove it
from his side forthwith.”
-A SECRET CORRESPONDENCE, is a dear Regency romance filled with secrets, mystery, and finding joy where it’s least expected. I thoroughly loved the delightful quick wit, charm, swoony moments,loveable/endearing characters within, a mysterious villain, a good does of thrilling suspense and danger. This story immediately intrigued me right from the start and captivated my full attention along the heartwarming/emotional journey, to such a satisfying and happy ever after. Aww, there is just so much goodness within. However, what I loved most of all about this lovely story was, seeing characters hold on to what matters most, how the power of love makes a difference through the good and hard parts of life, and the value of together than alone. This is a dear story part of a wonderful series that is worth the lovely heartwarming read, any day!🙌🏻📚🩷
“Love has a power greater than all the pride and difficulties in this world.”
•Content: no language, mild peril situation, gambling/debt of loved ones, death of parents in past, kisses only.
“Together, we could withstand anything. I want to do so with you. I want to be your steady companion, to be the reason you never feel lonely again.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“The road ahead would not be straight and simple, but it would be glorious, and she would not be taking it alone.”
#asecretcorrespondence
#authorkaseystockton
“The people who matter will continue to support you.”
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
“Together, they had found peace from their loneliness. More than that, they found love, support, and endless charity.”
December 11, 2025
I liked Marguerite as a character a lot. She knew herself, was strong and resilient, and didn’t fall for Samuel’s charms for their own sake.
There was a gaping hole in the book, though. Both Marguerite and Samuel reference the candor and intimacy of their letters almost ad nauseam. But we never get to see ANY of them! So basically the two of them fell in love off-page, and we kind of get the scraps of it in their in-person interactions. What’s the point then?!
They don’t have any truly meaningful in-person interactions that are reflective of the love they claim to have for each other, so you have to just take their word for it. The book would have been so much better if most or even all of the chapters had started with snippets of their written back and forth. That would have added so much depth to each character and their relationship. Haha I just can’t believe we only got to see the first letter and that’s it!!—such a wasted opportunity considering the entire plot hinges on that one point.
The other big issue were [spoilers] Marguerite’s blackmailer’s motivations. They didn’t add up. Considering he and Marguerite had a previous deep and loving relationship, why not reach out to her for help with his financial situation? It doesn’t make sense that he’d go through so much trouble to scare her, creating all these elaborate tricks. For what? People will do a lot for money alone, yes, but lust and pride are much more convincing motivators, I think. If the blackmailer had felt BEHOLDEN or betrayed by Marguerite and therefore felt like he was taking what was rightfully his, that would have made more sense. Then it would have been years of building resentment, pride, and bitterness that motivated him. But literally all we got was, “I’m poor so….yeah.” That’s not good enough.
And lastly, we didn’t get to enjoy Sam and Marguerite as a couple for more than maybe 10 pages, and that’s a crying shame.
This book was good enough to finish, but not good enough to captivate you with romance, nor satisfy you with a compelling mystery.
There was a gaping hole in the book, though. Both Marguerite and Samuel reference the candor and intimacy of their letters almost ad nauseam. But we never get to see ANY of them! So basically the two of them fell in love off-page, and we kind of get the scraps of it in their in-person interactions. What’s the point then?!
They don’t have any truly meaningful in-person interactions that are reflective of the love they claim to have for each other, so you have to just take their word for it. The book would have been so much better if most or even all of the chapters had started with snippets of their written back and forth. That would have added so much depth to each character and their relationship. Haha I just can’t believe we only got to see the first letter and that’s it!!—such a wasted opportunity considering the entire plot hinges on that one point.
The other big issue were [spoilers] Marguerite’s blackmailer’s motivations. They didn’t add up. Considering he and Marguerite had a previous deep and loving relationship, why not reach out to her for help with his financial situation? It doesn’t make sense that he’d go through so much trouble to scare her, creating all these elaborate tricks. For what? People will do a lot for money alone, yes, but lust and pride are much more convincing motivators, I think. If the blackmailer had felt BEHOLDEN or betrayed by Marguerite and therefore felt like he was taking what was rightfully his, that would have made more sense. Then it would have been years of building resentment, pride, and bitterness that motivated him. But literally all we got was, “I’m poor so….yeah.” That’s not good enough.
And lastly, we didn’t get to enjoy Sam and Marguerite as a couple for more than maybe 10 pages, and that’s a crying shame.
This book was good enough to finish, but not good enough to captivate you with romance, nor satisfy you with a compelling mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2025
A huge thank you to author Kasey Stockton for giving me the opportunity to be on her arc team! I discovered her books last year when I read the first two books of The Hearts of Harewood series. I will say that The Secret Correspondence makes an excellent addition to the series! The plot and the characters were absolutely wonderful.I will admit I had a hard time trying to put this book down and was slightly sad when it ended but I'm sure Kasey will have more wonderful stories for us in the future.
In this novel we are introduced to Samuel who despite is well liked reputation is nursing a bit of a broken heart. The woman he loved ended up marrying his cousin leaving him feeling very rejected. He finds a way of coping with the situation in corresponding with anonymous person through letters. Over time he finds himslef growing attached to this person and the main issue still occurs he still doesn't know her name.
In this novel we are introduced to Samuel who despite is well liked reputation is nursing a bit of a broken heart. The woman he loved ended up marrying his cousin leaving him feeling very rejected. He finds a way of coping with the situation in corresponding with anonymous person through letters. Over time he finds himslef growing attached to this person and the main issue still occurs he still doesn't know her name.
August 19, 2025
Ahh!!! This book is so, so good! I love a good regency novel and this one hit the spot!! It had a little bit of everything between the handsome and charming Samuel, the sweet and beautiful Marguerite, the secret pen pal letters, a mistaken identity, forbidden love due to station, some missing jewels, some cryptic messages, a little bit of mystery, and some suspense and you couldn’t ask for a more captivating story!
I just adored Marguerite and Samuel! I loved that they met serendipitously through a lost letter than continued on into a friendship via letters and eventually led to stronger feelings. I loved how protective Samuel (and his friends) were and how determined they were to keep her safe and help solve the mystery of who was leaving the notes/souvenirs. And most of all, I loved watching them fall in love!!
Favorite quotes:
“Unrequited love was a devil of a thorn, but Samuel Harding was determined to remove it from his side forthwith.”
“A man could be a little ridiculous on occasion without the aid of alcohol.” 😂
“If there was a natural talent in being the dressmaker for snobbish women, Marguerite had been gifted it. She could wrap them around her thumb like a limp ribbon.”
“Samuel leaned back on his bent elbow and felt entirely content. He reached down and held his wife’s hand. Together, they had found peace from their loneliness. More than that, they found love, support, and endless charity.”
I just adored Marguerite and Samuel! I loved that they met serendipitously through a lost letter than continued on into a friendship via letters and eventually led to stronger feelings. I loved how protective Samuel (and his friends) were and how determined they were to keep her safe and help solve the mystery of who was leaving the notes/souvenirs. And most of all, I loved watching them fall in love!!
Favorite quotes:
“Unrequited love was a devil of a thorn, but Samuel Harding was determined to remove it from his side forthwith.”
“A man could be a little ridiculous on occasion without the aid of alcohol.” 😂
“If there was a natural talent in being the dressmaker for snobbish women, Marguerite had been gifted it. She could wrap them around her thumb like a limp ribbon.”
“Samuel leaned back on his bent elbow and felt entirely content. He reached down and held his wife’s hand. Together, they had found peace from their loneliness. More than that, they found love, support, and endless charity.”
August 22, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I was invested in Samuel’s secret-penpal romance from the last one, so have been eagerly awaiting this book’s release. I’m very happy to report that it did not disappoint.
Like the other Harewood books, there is a mystery/suspense aspect to the story that helps to keep it moving and engaging. I really liked both MCs. They are great characters and don’t fall prey to excessive insecurities and inner turmoil. The story’s tension is instead provided through the events of the story, something that I really appreciate.
The one thing I think Kasey Stockton could have improved upon was to include some of their correspondence over the months. As it was, I felt a little in the dark as to their actual relationship. I wouldn’t go so far as to say the relationship was underdeveloped, but it did lack a bit of depth since we didn’t join them until after it was built.
The series progressively builds and the first 3 books set things up for this one. As such, I wouldn’t consider any of them truly standalone.
Content:
There is no foul language or sex, and the violence is minimal. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no real mention of faith or God.
Trigger warnings - a threatening stalker and an abduction of a female character (not with sexual intent)
Like the other Harewood books, there is a mystery/suspense aspect to the story that helps to keep it moving and engaging. I really liked both MCs. They are great characters and don’t fall prey to excessive insecurities and inner turmoil. The story’s tension is instead provided through the events of the story, something that I really appreciate.
The one thing I think Kasey Stockton could have improved upon was to include some of their correspondence over the months. As it was, I felt a little in the dark as to their actual relationship. I wouldn’t go so far as to say the relationship was underdeveloped, but it did lack a bit of depth since we didn’t join them until after it was built.
The series progressively builds and the first 3 books set things up for this one. As such, I wouldn’t consider any of them truly standalone.
Content:
There is no foul language or sex, and the violence is minimal. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no real mention of faith or God.
Trigger warnings - a threatening stalker and an abduction of a female character (not with sexual intent)
August 20, 2025
I love Kasey’s regency romance. I blew through this one and enjoyed every minute. It was the slow burn romance I love with enough mystery to keep me turning pages.
Samuel wants one thing in life- someone to love and have a family with. Through an accident, he finds a letter meant for someone else and writes to the author of it. They then start up a secret correspondence, leaving notes for each other in a secret spot. For a year they learn more about each other and Samuel wants to meet the well written friend when pressure is put on him to marry. Can he figure out who she is?
Marguerite has secrets. She keeps her head down and works hard in her shop. Shes lonely, but it’s the price she has to pay to feel safe. Her loneliness is soothed when she starts a correspondence with an unknown gentleman. But when she simultaneously finds out who this gentleman is, and starts receiving threats tied to her past, her quiet world is turned upside down.
I loved the mystery and intrigue, I loved the slow burn devoted love, and I especially enjoyed the friendships. Another delightful book by one of my favorite authors.
Samuel wants one thing in life- someone to love and have a family with. Through an accident, he finds a letter meant for someone else and writes to the author of it. They then start up a secret correspondence, leaving notes for each other in a secret spot. For a year they learn more about each other and Samuel wants to meet the well written friend when pressure is put on him to marry. Can he figure out who she is?
Marguerite has secrets. She keeps her head down and works hard in her shop. Shes lonely, but it’s the price she has to pay to feel safe. Her loneliness is soothed when she starts a correspondence with an unknown gentleman. But when she simultaneously finds out who this gentleman is, and starts receiving threats tied to her past, her quiet world is turned upside down.
I loved the mystery and intrigue, I loved the slow burn devoted love, and I especially enjoyed the friendships. Another delightful book by one of my favorite authors.
September 23, 2025
I love the idea of falling in love through letter writing! And not knowing who your correspondent is, makes it all the more thrilling. Samuel and Marguerite have a sweet story and I enjoyed reading this book.
A few minor plot holes and my inability to get attached to the characters are the reason for giving 4 stars rather than the five I usually give Kasey Stockton’s well written books.
A few minor plot holes and my inability to get attached to the characters are the reason for giving 4 stars rather than the five I usually give Kasey Stockton’s well written books.
August 13, 2025
This was hands down my favorite book in this series! I love the friend group dynamic in this series! Such a fun way to end this series!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
August 17, 2025
A Secret Correspondence is a sweet hidden identity, secret pen pal, mystery filled romance.
Samuel and Marguerite’s story was so sweet and nerve wracking! They’ve been exchanging anonymous, secret letters for months and have fallen in love through these letters. After meeting due to an accident caused by her cat, Marguerite and Samuel start running into each other more often and develop a friendship outside of the letters, without knowing that they are each other’s pen pal.
At the same time, Marguerite starts receiving threatening notes referencing her past life before fleeing France as a child. Samuel, as well as all of our other favorite characters from the previous books, joins with Marguerite in order to protect her and help her unravel the mystery regarding her past.
Samuel and Marguerite’s relationship is so sweet and unique. They fall in love over their shared letters but have no idea who the person is on the other side of the letters. As the mystery continues we get to see them grow closer and closer, overcoming a number of challenges.
Samuel is such a caring and funny character! It was so nice to get to know and to see more of who he is and what his life is like. We get to learn more about his situation and why he feels the way he does. It was also so nice to watch his relationship with Marguerite develop as he found someone he could trust and be himself with.
Marguerite is such a strong and caring character and I loved hearing her full story! She’s spent her life hiding and protecting her real identity out of fear that she cannot fully trust anyone. Over the course of this story we get to see her open up and learn how to trust people and allow others to care for her.
These two make such a sweet and beautiful couple, I’m so glad they got their happy ending.
I loved getting to know these characters more and finally getting to see Samuel get his happy ending! This was definitely a lovely addition to this series and anyone who enjoys clean recency romance should check out this story!
Thank you to Kasey Stockton for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content:
Clean kisses
No language
No innuendo
Mild violence
Samuel and Marguerite’s story was so sweet and nerve wracking! They’ve been exchanging anonymous, secret letters for months and have fallen in love through these letters. After meeting due to an accident caused by her cat, Marguerite and Samuel start running into each other more often and develop a friendship outside of the letters, without knowing that they are each other’s pen pal.
At the same time, Marguerite starts receiving threatening notes referencing her past life before fleeing France as a child. Samuel, as well as all of our other favorite characters from the previous books, joins with Marguerite in order to protect her and help her unravel the mystery regarding her past.
Samuel and Marguerite’s relationship is so sweet and unique. They fall in love over their shared letters but have no idea who the person is on the other side of the letters. As the mystery continues we get to see them grow closer and closer, overcoming a number of challenges.
Samuel is such a caring and funny character! It was so nice to get to know and to see more of who he is and what his life is like. We get to learn more about his situation and why he feels the way he does. It was also so nice to watch his relationship with Marguerite develop as he found someone he could trust and be himself with.
Marguerite is such a strong and caring character and I loved hearing her full story! She’s spent her life hiding and protecting her real identity out of fear that she cannot fully trust anyone. Over the course of this story we get to see her open up and learn how to trust people and allow others to care for her.
These two make such a sweet and beautiful couple, I’m so glad they got their happy ending.
I loved getting to know these characters more and finally getting to see Samuel get his happy ending! This was definitely a lovely addition to this series and anyone who enjoys clean recency romance should check out this story!
Thank you to Kasey Stockton for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content:
Clean kisses
No language
No innuendo
Mild violence
November 22, 2025
Loved Samuel's story!
Also contains an audiobook review.
This is the 4th (and I believe the final) book in the Hearts of Harewood series. It is a kisses only Regency era romance that is best read after reading the previous books in the series. Throughout we have seen Samuel and his struggles in love. We got a revelation about him in book 3 and this book gives us the rest of the story.
I just loved every word of this book! Despite knowing that we were going to get a happy ending, there was a brief period where I was just heartbroken. I couldn't wait to get through the chapters to see how everything was going to work out.
This was a book that I knew I wanted to listen to. It took all of my willpower to not read it when it first came out and to wait until the audiobook was ready. I knew that I would enjoy it so much more that way. BUT IT WAS SO HARD! I'm glad I did it though. This series is read by a wonderful female narrator. She really brings the characters to life for me and pulls me into their lives the way the author meant when writing.
This is now my favorite in this series!
Also contains an audiobook review.
This is the 4th (and I believe the final) book in the Hearts of Harewood series. It is a kisses only Regency era romance that is best read after reading the previous books in the series. Throughout we have seen Samuel and his struggles in love. We got a revelation about him in book 3 and this book gives us the rest of the story.
I just loved every word of this book! Despite knowing that we were going to get a happy ending, there was a brief period where I was just heartbroken. I couldn't wait to get through the chapters to see how everything was going to work out.
This was a book that I knew I wanted to listen to. It took all of my willpower to not read it when it first came out and to wait until the audiobook was ready. I knew that I would enjoy it so much more that way. BUT IT WAS SO HARD! I'm glad I did it though. This series is read by a wonderful female narrator. She really brings the characters to life for me and pulls me into their lives the way the author meant when writing.
This is now my favorite in this series!
August 19, 2025
Phenomenal!
This beautifully crafted story blew me away! I was so enthralled and swept away in the romance and mystery.
This story will take you on a ride. Two lonely hearts longing for a connection. Secret letters, pouring out their fears and emotions that they keep deeply hidden.
Samuel was such a sweet, sweet man. He touched my heart in Oliver and Ruth’s story and I hurt for him. I could not wait for him to get his happily ever after. To have someone to share his true self with, not the facade of a dandy he flaunts in society.
“I too am surrounded by family and servants and friends, a constant barrage of people, but still my soul is lonely. Still I yearn for something to fill my heart and bring me to completion, to bring me happiness and peace.”
I don’t want to spoil anything about the FMC, but her story and her connection with Samuel is perfection. There’s teasing banter, there’s a deep connection and friendship, and there’s swoony romance with a side of dashing rescue. I was absolutely hooked and on the edge of my seat with this added mystery plot.
The sweet friendship between the group of friends added so much more emotion to a story that was already filled with it.
I ADORED the men coming to help. Like Regency Avengers.
And I must give a mention to Claude, the cat-alyst (IYKYK😏) to a most charming meet-cute.
I cannot stress how much I adore this story and implore you to add this immediately to your TBR, or better yet, disregard it and start reading this instead.
Thank you to Kasey Stockton for the copy. All opinions are my own.
This beautifully crafted story blew me away! I was so enthralled and swept away in the romance and mystery.
This story will take you on a ride. Two lonely hearts longing for a connection. Secret letters, pouring out their fears and emotions that they keep deeply hidden.
Samuel was such a sweet, sweet man. He touched my heart in Oliver and Ruth’s story and I hurt for him. I could not wait for him to get his happily ever after. To have someone to share his true self with, not the facade of a dandy he flaunts in society.
“I too am surrounded by family and servants and friends, a constant barrage of people, but still my soul is lonely. Still I yearn for something to fill my heart and bring me to completion, to bring me happiness and peace.”
I don’t want to spoil anything about the FMC, but her story and her connection with Samuel is perfection. There’s teasing banter, there’s a deep connection and friendship, and there’s swoony romance with a side of dashing rescue. I was absolutely hooked and on the edge of my seat with this added mystery plot.
The sweet friendship between the group of friends added so much more emotion to a story that was already filled with it.
I ADORED the men coming to help. Like Regency Avengers.
And I must give a mention to Claude, the cat-alyst (IYKYK😏) to a most charming meet-cute.
I cannot stress how much I adore this story and implore you to add this immediately to your TBR, or better yet, disregard it and start reading this instead.
Thank you to Kasey Stockton for the copy. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2025
A good solid Regency romance
A good solid clean Regency romance. Romance, mystery, sweet good characters, all present in this book. I didn’t give it five stars because it was not outstanding and life changing and there were some things that wrapped up too easily or seemed convenient but if you’re looking for a lighthearted easy read, this hits those marks.
A good solid clean Regency romance. Romance, mystery, sweet good characters, all present in this book. I didn’t give it five stars because it was not outstanding and life changing and there were some things that wrapped up too easily or seemed convenient but if you’re looking for a lighthearted easy read, this hits those marks.
August 27, 2025
"𝙄 𝙙𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙."
This is definitely my new favorite in the series! The hidden identities and secret letters made it so mysterious, and hard to put down! Samuel's been my favorite guy in this series throughout it all, so I knew I'd love his story. 🩷 And the MFC was also a favorite...but I'll keep that one to myself. 😉
The love story was just perfect in every way. It was slow, and so many moments I didn't even know how it would work out in the end! This one really gives a found family feeling, and all the characters are my favorite. 🩷
If you enjoy a clean, closed-door Regency romance, then I highly recommend you give this one a try!!
*I received an e-ARC copy, all opinions are my own
This is definitely my new favorite in the series! The hidden identities and secret letters made it so mysterious, and hard to put down! Samuel's been my favorite guy in this series throughout it all, so I knew I'd love his story. 🩷 And the MFC was also a favorite...but I'll keep that one to myself. 😉
The love story was just perfect in every way. It was slow, and so many moments I didn't even know how it would work out in the end! This one really gives a found family feeling, and all the characters are my favorite. 🩷
If you enjoy a clean, closed-door Regency romance, then I highly recommend you give this one a try!!
*I received an e-ARC copy, all opinions are my own
September 1, 2025
I loved this series so much. I think this book might be my favorite of the four books, which says a lot, because I gave the first three 5 stars as well! Highly recommend reading the series beginning to end.
September 11, 2025
This one had more mystery and danger in it. Poor Marguerite went through so much, my heart broke for her several times. I loved watching her open up and gain friends. Samuel is great, but his obliviousness was frustrating and then heartbreaking once everything clicked into place for him. Sweet happy ending.
October 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and the mysterious aspect of it. it felt slightly predictable, but not overly so. A few of the plot points were quite convenient and moved the story along, but the writing was good, and I enjoyed that it was sweet and clean.
August 29, 2025
Kasey is def one of my favorite regency writers!! I loved Samuel and Marguerite 🥹
August 20, 2025
Ooh, I really liked this one!!!
I enjoyed the mystery behind why and how she got to England and all she had to do to protect herself! Her story is tragic, but I'm so glad she got a good ending.
He has to clean up the mess his father is making and find a rich wife, but after months of writing an anonymous woman, his heart may be with her. So when he thinks he discovers who it is and she happens to be rich, it's the perfect scenario, right?
The characters were so fantastic! They were constantly making me smile!
Loved catching up with previous book couples as well! 💕
I enjoyed the mystery behind why and how she got to England and all she had to do to protect herself! Her story is tragic, but I'm so glad she got a good ending.
He has to clean up the mess his father is making and find a rich wife, but after months of writing an anonymous woman, his heart may be with her. So when he thinks he discovers who it is and she happens to be rich, it's the perfect scenario, right?
The characters were so fantastic! They were constantly making me smile!
Loved catching up with previous book couples as well! 💕
September 15, 2025
3.5, It was fine. I wish we had more of their letters to see their relationship because it felt as if they didn’t actually have much of one. It was more of a tell not show.
I did read this right after Emma M. Lion so it felt not as fair because not much compares to that series.
The book kept me interested, there was mystery and I liked the characters, it was the last one in the series and I liked it more than some of the others because there was no point of view from a future character that made the flow weird, so that was nice.
I did read this right after Emma M. Lion so it felt not as fair because not much compares to that series.
The book kept me interested, there was mystery and I liked the characters, it was the last one in the series and I liked it more than some of the others because there was no point of view from a future character that made the flow weird, so that was nice.
October 22, 2025
📚 𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗦𝗻𝗮𝗽𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁
Her letters revealed everything but the thing he most needs (her name).
Samuel Harding, Harewood’s most charming dandy, hides a bruised heart beneath his impeccable cravats and witty banter. After watching the woman he once loved marry his cousin, he finds unexpected solace in a series of anonymous letters (clever, intimate, and brimming with soul). What starts as curiosity becomes something far deeper (a friendship born on paper that blossoms into affection and mystery). But as truths begin to surface, Samuel must decide if love can truly heal what pride and loss have wounded.
🖋️ 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝗯𝗲
Kasey Stockton delivers her signature blend of warmth, tenderness, and wit, wrapping readers in a story that feels like sipping tea by candlelight. Her prose captures Regency charm with a modern heartbeat (graceful, heartfelt, and infused with gentle humor). This final installment balances mystery and romance beautifully, with the letter-writing element giving the love story an old-fashioned, soulful touch.
❤️ 𝗠𝘆 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 & 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
✨ I loved the epistolary thread throughout (each letter felt like a quiet confession, filled with longing, wit, and vulnerability).
✨ The reveal of the heroine’s identity added a delightful layer of mystery and emotional payoff.
✨ Samuel’s long-awaited happily-ever-after was deeply satisfying (his growth and tenderness made him one of my favorite heroes in the series).
✨ I also loved the strong sense of friendship that runs through the story (seeing familiar faces return felt like reuniting with dear friends, which made this farewell to Harewood bittersweet).
📚 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆
The pacing may feel slower to some, but for me it was perfectly measured (a cozy, contemplative Regency read ideal for moments when you need a gentle literary palate cleanser).
📚 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆
💐 Clean Regency romances filled with letters, secrets, and slow-burn affection
💐 Second chances and emotional healing after heartbreak
💐 Epistolary love stories that unfold through wit and emotional honesty
💐 Gentle, closed-door romances with endearing side characters and friendship at the heart of it all
💕 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲 💕
𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 & 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: ★★☆ (2/3)
𝗘𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗵: ★★★ (3/3)
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: ★★★ (3/3)
🔍 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀:
Spice: None • Romance: Sweet, closed-door affection • Language: Clean
Content: Themes of grief, emotional healing, and mild tension related to secrecy and family expectations
Her letters revealed everything but the thing he most needs (her name).
Samuel Harding, Harewood’s most charming dandy, hides a bruised heart beneath his impeccable cravats and witty banter. After watching the woman he once loved marry his cousin, he finds unexpected solace in a series of anonymous letters (clever, intimate, and brimming with soul). What starts as curiosity becomes something far deeper (a friendship born on paper that blossoms into affection and mystery). But as truths begin to surface, Samuel must decide if love can truly heal what pride and loss have wounded.
🖋️ 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝗯𝗲
Kasey Stockton delivers her signature blend of warmth, tenderness, and wit, wrapping readers in a story that feels like sipping tea by candlelight. Her prose captures Regency charm with a modern heartbeat (graceful, heartfelt, and infused with gentle humor). This final installment balances mystery and romance beautifully, with the letter-writing element giving the love story an old-fashioned, soulful touch.
❤️ 𝗠𝘆 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 & 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
✨ I loved the epistolary thread throughout (each letter felt like a quiet confession, filled with longing, wit, and vulnerability).
✨ The reveal of the heroine’s identity added a delightful layer of mystery and emotional payoff.
✨ Samuel’s long-awaited happily-ever-after was deeply satisfying (his growth and tenderness made him one of my favorite heroes in the series).
✨ I also loved the strong sense of friendship that runs through the story (seeing familiar faces return felt like reuniting with dear friends, which made this farewell to Harewood bittersweet).
📚 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆
The pacing may feel slower to some, but for me it was perfectly measured (a cozy, contemplative Regency read ideal for moments when you need a gentle literary palate cleanser).
📚 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆
💐 Clean Regency romances filled with letters, secrets, and slow-burn affection
💐 Second chances and emotional healing after heartbreak
💐 Epistolary love stories that unfold through wit and emotional honesty
💐 Gentle, closed-door romances with endearing side characters and friendship at the heart of it all
💕 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲 💕
𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 & 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: ★★☆ (2/3)
𝗘𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗵: ★★★ (3/3)
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: ★★★ (3/3)
🔍 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀:
Spice: None • Romance: Sweet, closed-door affection • Language: Clean
Content: Themes of grief, emotional healing, and mild tension related to secrecy and family expectations
August 25, 2025
All the love for A Secret Correspondence! Kasey Stockton delivers a romantic, hidden identity, friends to more romance with charming characters, well kept secrets, & a cozy mystery. I’ve been highly anticipating Samuel’s story, & absolutely adored it!
After losing the woman he loved to his cousin, fashionable, flirtatious Samuel Harding finds an intriguing new friend. When he discovers an anonymous letter near a local kissing gate, he feels such a connection & is so moved by it that he writes back. Soon a correspondence begins between him & the mystery lady. Over months, they forge a wonderful friendship & Samuel’s determined to find out who his dear friend is.
Two women seem to fit the bill, but which one could it be? Is it Marguerite, the local French modiste who shares his talent for fashions, or Miss Isabelle Farrow, the wealthy young woman who seems to possess the same qualities as his secret correspondent?
I loved this story! Marguerite’s hiding several secrets, & when visitors from France arrive, she finds herself being blackmailed. She & Samuel enjoy a charming relationship after bonding over her cat Claude, & when he learns of the danger she’s in, he wants to help. As the past comes back to haunt her, will Samuel be able to keep her safe? And how will he figure out the identity of his secret correspondent whom he’s come to deeply care for?
This story kept me on the edge of my seat! There’s a dastardly villain who’ll stop at nothing, & who was a bit of a surprise. I was on pins & needles hoping Samuel & his cousins could catch the culprit. I don’t want to say too much because it’s so fun unraveling all the secrets. I also loved Samuel taking a stand & not taking the fall for his father’s follies.
The romance is amazing & I loved how Samuel discovers who his secret pen pal is. Seeing Samuel come into his own & find someone who’ll love him as much as he loves was the icing on the cake. Along with the romance, I enjoyed the witty banter, delightful friendships, & learning Samuel’s hidden depths.
This series is so amazing & this book provides a perfect ending. Highly recommend! Though it can be read as a standalone, it’s more enjoyable if you’ve read the previous books. I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased a copy in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
After losing the woman he loved to his cousin, fashionable, flirtatious Samuel Harding finds an intriguing new friend. When he discovers an anonymous letter near a local kissing gate, he feels such a connection & is so moved by it that he writes back. Soon a correspondence begins between him & the mystery lady. Over months, they forge a wonderful friendship & Samuel’s determined to find out who his dear friend is.
Two women seem to fit the bill, but which one could it be? Is it Marguerite, the local French modiste who shares his talent for fashions, or Miss Isabelle Farrow, the wealthy young woman who seems to possess the same qualities as his secret correspondent?
I loved this story! Marguerite’s hiding several secrets, & when visitors from France arrive, she finds herself being blackmailed. She & Samuel enjoy a charming relationship after bonding over her cat Claude, & when he learns of the danger she’s in, he wants to help. As the past comes back to haunt her, will Samuel be able to keep her safe? And how will he figure out the identity of his secret correspondent whom he’s come to deeply care for?
This story kept me on the edge of my seat! There’s a dastardly villain who’ll stop at nothing, & who was a bit of a surprise. I was on pins & needles hoping Samuel & his cousins could catch the culprit. I don’t want to say too much because it’s so fun unraveling all the secrets. I also loved Samuel taking a stand & not taking the fall for his father’s follies.
The romance is amazing & I loved how Samuel discovers who his secret pen pal is. Seeing Samuel come into his own & find someone who’ll love him as much as he loves was the icing on the cake. Along with the romance, I enjoyed the witty banter, delightful friendships, & learning Samuel’s hidden depths.
This series is so amazing & this book provides a perfect ending. Highly recommend! Though it can be read as a standalone, it’s more enjoyable if you’ve read the previous books. I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased a copy in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
December 30, 2025
I have realized that my favorite trope is letter writers leading to a misunderstanding. The added suspense of one knowing the other’s identity is superb! My emotional reaction when Samuel proposed to the first girl was intense, indicating how engrossed I was in the story. There was a moment I suspected Paul, but immediately dismissed it because he was a Catholic priest in his life in France. It was a good misdirection, but sad she was betrayed by her only connection to her past, and someone that her parents ultimately were killed over. There were some odd things. Like why did Paul lie to her about the chest in the first place. Her family had just died saving him, and his response is to withhold a chest he believes only to have sentimental value. However, he is still loving and kind to her all those years. That seemed off. Also, the Ms. Farrow story line was really sad and unresolved.
Marguerite is the daughter of French aristocrats who were killed during the French revolution for housing a catholic priest, Paul. Paul took Marguerite with him and fled to England. Marguerite saw her mother see jewelry into her dresses. Two trunks were supposed to go with them, but they used a private fisherman. Paul said that one trunk never showed. Marguerite became a dress maker. Paul left the clergy and became a tutor.
Samuel has gotten past his affection for Ruth, but desperately wants the happiness all his friends have in marriage. He began corresponding through an anonymous penpal. They would leave their letters in a wall. The penpal: Marguerite. One day, Samuel is thrown from his horse when Marguerite‘s cat jumps in the horses path. He has a conversation with Marguerite about cats, and why her cat has a boy name when it’s a girl. He later writes about the debacle in his letter to Marguerite. Marguerite is shocked, and saddened as they are in different classes. She quickly retrieved the letter she had written, and stops writing for a time. Samuel is distraught over the lack of correspondence, but begins to believe the cousin of a local girl, Ms. Farrow, may be his mystery woman. She comes back into town, and just so happens to share the same answers as Marguerite in the three question Samuel uses to deduce that the cousin is the mystery penpal. Samuel seems not super smart because of this. In the meantime, Marguerite has received mysterious notes of a somewhat threatening nature. The person clearly believes that Marguerite has family jewels worth immense value, and provides evidence that he has her mother‘s second trunk. Slowly, she begins to reveal her concerns to the local friends she has made. Samuel takes a particular interest. He seems to be enjoying, courting Ms Farrow. However, he believes he knows her from their letter writing. He is being pressured by his family to marry a wealthy woman because of his father‘s poor financial decisions. He decides that he will propose, knowing that he loves the person behind the letters. This came pretty abruptly in the story and causes much emotional distress to Samuel and the reader. Samuel only realizes after their engagement that his betrothed has no idea what he’s talking about regarding letters. As the friend group is concocting plans to ensnare the person threatening Marguerite, she explains her backstory to a degree. At one point, she begins talking about Paul. Samuel appears dumbfounded, and Marguerite immediately realizes that he has connected the dots to her and her letters. He was seen leaving her shop early in the morning. As he is in the throes of sadness over being engaged to a stranger, his betroth’s mother shows up accusing him of wrongdoing with Marguerite. He feels it’s not his secret to tell, so just says nothing untoward has happened. The mother doesn’t believe him and severs the engagement. Samuel takes it in stride, but you do feel bad for the girl as she seemed lovely and now has the shadow of a broken engagement. She didn’t do anything wrong, she just wasn’t the secret correspondent. That night the friend group puts fake jewels in a drop location established by the person leaving the notes for Marguerite. However, they are outsmarted when the man grabs Marguerite and takes her back to her shop to find the diamonds. Marguerite is distraught when she realizes the man is Paul. He has fallen on hard times and deduced that she had the jewels because of her financial success and purchasing the dressmaker shop. Luckily, she never revealed to Paul where the jewels had been hidden. He begins threatening to take her to France as they must have been on her mother. However, the friends have shown up at her shop. Paul reveals that she’s been lying about her past for years. The friend group takes it in stride, understanding she was a small child and trying to protect herself. She is shocked at their forgiveness. The three men jump Paul and Marguerite is freed. Samuel confesses to Marguerite that his world stopped when he came to the shop and saw Paul with a knife at Marguerite’s throat. He explains that he loves her and wants to get married. She agrees. She reveals to Samuel that her aunt had hidden jewelry in dresses in the chest that had made it with her to England. She has a couple jewels left to sell of her aunts jewelry. She had hidden them in her bed, so Paul was right that she had some wealth. Samuel goes with Marguerite to Paul’s home, where they find her mother’s chest. She is so happy to see her mother’s belongings. She also sees her favorite blue dress from childhood and remarked to Samuel that her mother had one in the same color, and was wearing it when they attempted to flee France. As she digs through the chest, she is shocked to see that dress among her mother’s things. She begins opening the dress and sees the jewels have been in Paul’s possession the entire time. However, the stiffness of the dress masked the jewelry. It turns out all her mother’s dresses had jewels, so Samuel’s financial woes are solved. They get married, and Marguerite’s jewels are able to pay for Samuel‘s father‘s debts and repairs to this estate. The book ends with them having been married for four months and Marguerite expecting. The author reveals in a post script that Marguerite had a boy.
Marguerite is the daughter of French aristocrats who were killed during the French revolution for housing a catholic priest, Paul. Paul took Marguerite with him and fled to England. Marguerite saw her mother see jewelry into her dresses. Two trunks were supposed to go with them, but they used a private fisherman. Paul said that one trunk never showed. Marguerite became a dress maker. Paul left the clergy and became a tutor.
Samuel has gotten past his affection for Ruth, but desperately wants the happiness all his friends have in marriage. He began corresponding through an anonymous penpal. They would leave their letters in a wall. The penpal: Marguerite. One day, Samuel is thrown from his horse when Marguerite‘s cat jumps in the horses path. He has a conversation with Marguerite about cats, and why her cat has a boy name when it’s a girl. He later writes about the debacle in his letter to Marguerite. Marguerite is shocked, and saddened as they are in different classes. She quickly retrieved the letter she had written, and stops writing for a time. Samuel is distraught over the lack of correspondence, but begins to believe the cousin of a local girl, Ms. Farrow, may be his mystery woman. She comes back into town, and just so happens to share the same answers as Marguerite in the three question Samuel uses to deduce that the cousin is the mystery penpal. Samuel seems not super smart because of this. In the meantime, Marguerite has received mysterious notes of a somewhat threatening nature. The person clearly believes that Marguerite has family jewels worth immense value, and provides evidence that he has her mother‘s second trunk. Slowly, she begins to reveal her concerns to the local friends she has made. Samuel takes a particular interest. He seems to be enjoying, courting Ms Farrow. However, he believes he knows her from their letter writing. He is being pressured by his family to marry a wealthy woman because of his father‘s poor financial decisions. He decides that he will propose, knowing that he loves the person behind the letters. This came pretty abruptly in the story and causes much emotional distress to Samuel and the reader. Samuel only realizes after their engagement that his betrothed has no idea what he’s talking about regarding letters. As the friend group is concocting plans to ensnare the person threatening Marguerite, she explains her backstory to a degree. At one point, she begins talking about Paul. Samuel appears dumbfounded, and Marguerite immediately realizes that he has connected the dots to her and her letters. He was seen leaving her shop early in the morning. As he is in the throes of sadness over being engaged to a stranger, his betroth’s mother shows up accusing him of wrongdoing with Marguerite. He feels it’s not his secret to tell, so just says nothing untoward has happened. The mother doesn’t believe him and severs the engagement. Samuel takes it in stride, but you do feel bad for the girl as she seemed lovely and now has the shadow of a broken engagement. She didn’t do anything wrong, she just wasn’t the secret correspondent. That night the friend group puts fake jewels in a drop location established by the person leaving the notes for Marguerite. However, they are outsmarted when the man grabs Marguerite and takes her back to her shop to find the diamonds. Marguerite is distraught when she realizes the man is Paul. He has fallen on hard times and deduced that she had the jewels because of her financial success and purchasing the dressmaker shop. Luckily, she never revealed to Paul where the jewels had been hidden. He begins threatening to take her to France as they must have been on her mother. However, the friends have shown up at her shop. Paul reveals that she’s been lying about her past for years. The friend group takes it in stride, understanding she was a small child and trying to protect herself. She is shocked at their forgiveness. The three men jump Paul and Marguerite is freed. Samuel confesses to Marguerite that his world stopped when he came to the shop and saw Paul with a knife at Marguerite’s throat. He explains that he loves her and wants to get married. She agrees. She reveals to Samuel that her aunt had hidden jewelry in dresses in the chest that had made it with her to England. She has a couple jewels left to sell of her aunts jewelry. She had hidden them in her bed, so Paul was right that she had some wealth. Samuel goes with Marguerite to Paul’s home, where they find her mother’s chest. She is so happy to see her mother’s belongings. She also sees her favorite blue dress from childhood and remarked to Samuel that her mother had one in the same color, and was wearing it when they attempted to flee France. As she digs through the chest, she is shocked to see that dress among her mother’s things. She begins opening the dress and sees the jewels have been in Paul’s possession the entire time. However, the stiffness of the dress masked the jewelry. It turns out all her mother’s dresses had jewels, so Samuel’s financial woes are solved. They get married, and Marguerite’s jewels are able to pay for Samuel‘s father‘s debts and repairs to this estate. The book ends with them having been married for four months and Marguerite expecting. The author reveals in a post script that Marguerite had a boy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2025
I am so happy with this beautiful conclusion to one of my favorite series! 💕
Samuel deserved his love story and he got an adorable one with mysteries, I love it.
I was thinking how to do this review without ruining the mystery of Samuel's secret correspondent... I don't know how to do it!
If you still don't want to know who she is don't read on haha.
I'm proud to say that my suspicions from the previous books proved true.
*
*
*
*
Samuel Harding has been exchanging letters with an unknown woman for eight months, or maybe he knows her but doesn't know it.
With her he is able to share his deepest feelings and thoughts, he opens his heart in his letters and she in return does the same.
Samuel begins to fall in love with his secret friend and wants to discover who she is in order to leave the loneliness that consumes him and start a life together.
Marguerite leads a lonely life, without family and far from the country of her birth. Being French in England is not very convenient in those times, but she benefits a little in her work as a dressmaker.
Marguerite relieves her loneliness and pain with the letters she exchanges with a secret correspondent. She does not know who this man is but she knows he stole her heart.
When she begins to receive threatening notes and blackmail that brings up her painful past and the secrets it hides, she gets help from her friends in town, including the handsome and likable Samuel Harding.
Spending time together and with a growing attraction between them, they will discover their correspondents?
But even if they do, the social distance that separates them is too great and secrets and mysteries get in the way.
You will find:
💌 Dual POV
💌 Different social positions
💌 Secret past
💌 Found family
💌 Mysteries to solve
💌 Forbidden love
💌 Small town
💌 Sweet epilogue
I thoroughly recommend this fun and beautiful story! And I was happy to see beloved characters from the previous books ❤️
This is the fourth book in the Hearts of Harewood series, although it can be read as a standalone I recommend reading the whole series, I'm sure you will love it.
Thanks to the author for the advance copy.
All opinions are my own.
*Content guide: death of family members, French revolution, mentions of violence and deaths, blackmail.
💐For reviews with book aesthetics and more content follow me on Instagram: @sina.venus.booklover
Samuel deserved his love story and he got an adorable one with mysteries, I love it.
I was thinking how to do this review without ruining the mystery of Samuel's secret correspondent... I don't know how to do it!
If you still don't want to know who she is don't read on haha.
I'm proud to say that my suspicions from the previous books proved true.
*
*
*
*
Samuel Harding has been exchanging letters with an unknown woman for eight months, or maybe he knows her but doesn't know it.
With her he is able to share his deepest feelings and thoughts, he opens his heart in his letters and she in return does the same.
Samuel begins to fall in love with his secret friend and wants to discover who she is in order to leave the loneliness that consumes him and start a life together.
Marguerite leads a lonely life, without family and far from the country of her birth. Being French in England is not very convenient in those times, but she benefits a little in her work as a dressmaker.
Marguerite relieves her loneliness and pain with the letters she exchanges with a secret correspondent. She does not know who this man is but she knows he stole her heart.
When she begins to receive threatening notes and blackmail that brings up her painful past and the secrets it hides, she gets help from her friends in town, including the handsome and likable Samuel Harding.
Spending time together and with a growing attraction between them, they will discover their correspondents?
But even if they do, the social distance that separates them is too great and secrets and mysteries get in the way.
You will find:
💌 Dual POV
💌 Different social positions
💌 Secret past
💌 Found family
💌 Mysteries to solve
💌 Forbidden love
💌 Small town
💌 Sweet epilogue
I thoroughly recommend this fun and beautiful story! And I was happy to see beloved characters from the previous books ❤️
This is the fourth book in the Hearts of Harewood series, although it can be read as a standalone I recommend reading the whole series, I'm sure you will love it.
Thanks to the author for the advance copy.
All opinions are my own.
*Content guide: death of family members, French revolution, mentions of violence and deaths, blackmail.
💐For reviews with book aesthetics and more content follow me on Instagram: @sina.venus.booklover
August 8, 2025
UNPUTDOWNABLE!!
Samuel may be all charm and wit, but beneath the facade is a lonely man nursing a wounded heart. He finds unexpected comfort in a series of letters exchanged with an anonymous pen pal, a woman he’s falling for, despite never having met her…though she might not be a stranger after all.
What you'll love:
Regency era
dual pov
last in the series
danger and mystery
protective hero
swoooony romance!
My list is short and so is this review because I am NOT spoiling a single thing about this book! We have been waiting to find out who Samuel's mystery letter write is to and the name isn't even included in the blurb so I am not going to give it away either. You'll just have to read to find out and then DM me to chat about it!
What I will say is this. This book has everything I have come to love about Kasey's stories, all the Regency charm, quick wit, swoony romance, and characters that are just so loveable. And then in this final story she adds in a mysterious villain and a whole lot of suspense and danger? I was completely hooked and stayed up way past my bedtime to keep reading because I could not put it down. Samuel is a worthy hero and watching him fall was such an emotional journey and the entire romance completely melted my heart!
This is book 4 in the series and while you *could* read it as a standalone, honestly you should start with book one! The entire series is five star reads and not only will you get to watch each couple fall in love, this final book has them all working together to save the day! Such a satisfying end to a wonderful series and this one gets ALL the stars from me!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Content: kisses only, no swearing
Samuel may be all charm and wit, but beneath the facade is a lonely man nursing a wounded heart. He finds unexpected comfort in a series of letters exchanged with an anonymous pen pal, a woman he’s falling for, despite never having met her…though she might not be a stranger after all.
What you'll love:
Regency era
dual pov
last in the series
danger and mystery
protective hero
swoooony romance!
My list is short and so is this review because I am NOT spoiling a single thing about this book! We have been waiting to find out who Samuel's mystery letter write is to and the name isn't even included in the blurb so I am not going to give it away either. You'll just have to read to find out and then DM me to chat about it!
What I will say is this. This book has everything I have come to love about Kasey's stories, all the Regency charm, quick wit, swoony romance, and characters that are just so loveable. And then in this final story she adds in a mysterious villain and a whole lot of suspense and danger? I was completely hooked and stayed up way past my bedtime to keep reading because I could not put it down. Samuel is a worthy hero and watching him fall was such an emotional journey and the entire romance completely melted my heart!
This is book 4 in the series and while you *could* read it as a standalone, honestly you should start with book one! The entire series is five star reads and not only will you get to watch each couple fall in love, this final book has them all working together to save the day! Such a satisfying end to a wonderful series and this one gets ALL the stars from me!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Content: kisses only, no swearing
August 20, 2025
The perfect ending to the series! All the stars for this one as this book had all the feels and a healthy heaping of everything that makes a story great! If you have read the other books in the series you have grown to know/love/ and feel heartbroken for Samuel. Forever in love with a woman who doesn’t love him back, who ends up marrying his best friend and cousin- yeah you feel for the guy.
One day he is walking in the woods and comes upon a letter not intended for him, but with no address he opens it in hopes of finding who is belongs to, this starts a secret correspondence with a woman he has grown to love but he doesn’t know her identity.
Marguerite is the local French modiste with no small amount of secrets and much to lose. After a chance meeting their friendship begins to grow and Sam and his group of friends rally around Marguerite as she starts to receive secret correspondence of her own but not of the friendly variety.
This story is full of love and longing and a fantastic mystery! I read the majority of this book over the last two days and just couldn’t put it down. Once you get about half way you will understand! You just NEED to know how it is all going to turn out and it was masterfully done!
I would definitely recommend this one! So so good! I do recommend reading this entire series in order it is so good you will not regret it!
Favorite parts:
⚜️The found family
⚜️The heroic men of Harewood
⚜️Claude/Marcel
⚜️The mystery/suspense
⚜️Miss Snubs
⚜️The gowns! They all sound so beautiful!
⚜️Getting to catch up either all the previous characters
⚜️Samuel being a true gentleman in all aspects
One day he is walking in the woods and comes upon a letter not intended for him, but with no address he opens it in hopes of finding who is belongs to, this starts a secret correspondence with a woman he has grown to love but he doesn’t know her identity.
Marguerite is the local French modiste with no small amount of secrets and much to lose. After a chance meeting their friendship begins to grow and Sam and his group of friends rally around Marguerite as she starts to receive secret correspondence of her own but not of the friendly variety.
This story is full of love and longing and a fantastic mystery! I read the majority of this book over the last two days and just couldn’t put it down. Once you get about half way you will understand! You just NEED to know how it is all going to turn out and it was masterfully done!
I would definitely recommend this one! So so good! I do recommend reading this entire series in order it is so good you will not regret it!
Favorite parts:
⚜️The found family
⚜️The heroic men of Harewood
⚜️Claude/Marcel
⚜️The mystery/suspense
⚜️Miss Snubs
⚜️The gowns! They all sound so beautiful!
⚜️Getting to catch up either all the previous characters
⚜️Samuel being a true gentleman in all aspects
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews