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The Bow Street Runners #1
Brentwood's Ward
“I suppose I can’t expect to keep you under lock and key. You’re hardly a criminal. . .are you?”
It takes a criminal to catch one, and Nicholas Brentwood is just the man for the job. Reformed in more ways than one, the rough-around-the-edges Brentwood is a member of the Bow Street Runners, London’s early nineteenth-century fledgling police force. There’s none better than Brentwood at catching the felons who ravage the city’s streets, and there’s nothing he loves more than seeing justice served. Beautiful and beguiling, Miss Emily Payne is not the sort of miscreant Brentwood usually hunts down. When he is assigned as her bodyguard, he vows to protect her from her father’s enemies, who will stop at nothing to carry out their mission fueled by greed and revenge.
All her life, Emily has longed for love, but it remains beyond her grasp. This season she’s determined to find a husband, which is quite the undertaking with a hound-dog guardian like Brentwood watching her every step. If he would just give her some measure of freedom, she is sure she could win the heart of society’s most eligible bachelor.
Emily’s headstrong persistence challenges Nicholas in ways he doesn’t expect but of one thing he’s certain—of all the cunning criminals he’s dealt with in the past, this time he’s met his match.
It takes a criminal to catch one, and Nicholas Brentwood is just the man for the job. Reformed in more ways than one, the rough-around-the-edges Brentwood is a member of the Bow Street Runners, London’s early nineteenth-century fledgling police force. There’s none better than Brentwood at catching the felons who ravage the city’s streets, and there’s nothing he loves more than seeing justice served. Beautiful and beguiling, Miss Emily Payne is not the sort of miscreant Brentwood usually hunts down. When he is assigned as her bodyguard, he vows to protect her from her father’s enemies, who will stop at nothing to carry out their mission fueled by greed and revenge.
All her life, Emily has longed for love, but it remains beyond her grasp. This season she’s determined to find a husband, which is quite the undertaking with a hound-dog guardian like Brentwood watching her every step. If he would just give her some measure of freedom, she is sure she could win the heart of society’s most eligible bachelor.
Emily’s headstrong persistence challenges Nicholas in ways he doesn’t expect but of one thing he’s certain—of all the cunning criminals he’s dealt with in the past, this time he’s met his match.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
220 people are currently reading
3360 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Griep
42 books2,623 followersI hear voices. Loud. Incessant. And very real. Which basically gives me two options: choke back massive amounts of Prozac or write fiction. I chose the latter. Way cheaper. I've been writing since I discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. I seek to glorify God in all that I write...except for that graffiti phase I went through as a teenager. Oops. Did I say that out loud?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 381 reviews
August 1, 2015
I had low expectations when starting this. Like low, low expectations. After just reading a rather stale book, I was expecting another boring story where I wasn’t too emotionally invested.
Hot-digity-dang was I wrong.
I can barely even describe how much I love this novel. Not only can Michelle Griep write so well the world seems to fade away when you’re reading, but the characters are so dynamic and interesting it would be impossible to remain uninvested in the story. When she was writing this, I feel like Griep said, “Have a plot twist here. And here. And here.” Normally, I wouldn’t like so many twists. But while reading Brentwood’s Ward, the twists work and they are legitimately shocking. I’ve never had a I-saw-that-coming moment.
This is a beautifully written novel and not cliche at all! I'd highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic historical fiction.
Hot-digity-dang was I wrong.
I can barely even describe how much I love this novel. Not only can Michelle Griep write so well the world seems to fade away when you’re reading, but the characters are so dynamic and interesting it would be impossible to remain uninvested in the story. When she was writing this, I feel like Griep said, “Have a plot twist here. And here. And here.” Normally, I wouldn’t like so many twists. But while reading Brentwood’s Ward, the twists work and they are legitimately shocking. I’ve never had a I-saw-that-coming moment.
This is a beautifully written novel and not cliche at all! I'd highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic historical fiction.
June 17, 2018
This is my third Michelle Griep novel and my favorite thus far. I loved the relationship between lawman Nicholas Brentwood and socialite Emily Payne. Nicholas was a fabulous leading male..tough, kind, honorable and loving.
April 9, 2018
Brentwood's Ward (2015, Barbour) by Michelle Griep is a Christian Regency romance novel with mystery/suspense set in London in 1807. This book is clean, but be aware that rape is an issue in the story. I wanted to read this book because I liked the cover, and because I really enjoy Regency romances with a ward trope. However, the heroine isn't a ward quite in the sense that I expected!
Rating: 5 stars
Heroine: Emily Payne is a woman with a mission. She wants to be independent of her father, and in Regency times, that means she needs to get married. Emily has her eyes set on the most eligible (read: wealthiest) bachelor in London.
Hero: Nicholas Brentwood is a Bow Street Runner and has eagerly accepted a high-paying special assignment. His sister is ill with consumption, and the extra money will allow Nicholas to move her to a healthier environment. His assignment is to be Emily Payne's guardian while her father is gone for about a month on business.
What I liked:
*I loved both Nicholas and Emily. Emily definitely has character growth throughout, but I liked her even at the beginning. The secondary characters are great, as well. I wouldn't mind reading more about some of them in another book!
*I was so glad to finally learn more about "Bow Street Runners," which I've seen mentioned in many Regency romances.
What I didn't like:
*More than one sad/bad thing happens. (I recognize that isn't a flaw in the book but a personal preference.)
*The book wasn't a cliffhanger, but there were a couple of small details I was curious about after finishing it. The book makes sense the way it is, but I guess I like things tied up in a bow. I've read some other reviewers not liking stories where things are "tied up too neatly" and I'm afraid I'm on the other end of that spectrum!
The bottom line: I'd recommend this book to fans of historical Christian romantic suspense with the caveat that the reader is mature enough to understand rape and its surrounding issues. My husband listened to an Audible copy and enjoyed it as well! I definitely plan to try another Michelle Griep book!
Rating: 5 stars
Heroine: Emily Payne is a woman with a mission. She wants to be independent of her father, and in Regency times, that means she needs to get married. Emily has her eyes set on the most eligible (read: wealthiest) bachelor in London.
Hero: Nicholas Brentwood is a Bow Street Runner and has eagerly accepted a high-paying special assignment. His sister is ill with consumption, and the extra money will allow Nicholas to move her to a healthier environment. His assignment is to be Emily Payne's guardian while her father is gone for about a month on business.
What I liked:
*I loved both Nicholas and Emily. Emily definitely has character growth throughout, but I liked her even at the beginning. The secondary characters are great, as well. I wouldn't mind reading more about some of them in another book!
*I was so glad to finally learn more about "Bow Street Runners," which I've seen mentioned in many Regency romances.
What I didn't like:
*More than one sad/bad thing happens. (I recognize that isn't a flaw in the book but a personal preference.)
*The book wasn't a cliffhanger, but there were a couple of small details I was curious about after finishing it. The book makes sense the way it is, but I guess I like things tied up in a bow. I've read some other reviewers not liking stories where things are "tied up too neatly" and I'm afraid I'm on the other end of that spectrum!
The bottom line: I'd recommend this book to fans of historical Christian romantic suspense with the caveat that the reader is mature enough to understand rape and its surrounding issues. My husband listened to an Audible copy and enjoyed it as well! I definitely plan to try another Michelle Griep book!
June 21, 2019
London, 1807
I really enjoyed Ms. Griep's book, The Captive Heart so I was excited to read this regency of hers. While it was enjoyable, I enjoyed her other book more. I wasn't feeling the romance, didn't quite see what Nicholas saw in Emily (she was pretty spoiled). Had a hard time keeping my interest. This may be a case of "its not you, its me." Still look forward to trying more of Ms. Griep's books.
Content
Romance: Pretty clean, just kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild-Moderate. An attempted rape (a little detailed, and recovery was a little rushed/unbelievable). Side character was raped resulting in pregnancy (didn't really like how that was handled)
Religious: Christian - Moderate. Felt a little out of place, I prefer when its more subtle and organic to the story.
Source: Netgalley
I really enjoyed Ms. Griep's book, The Captive Heart so I was excited to read this regency of hers. While it was enjoyable, I enjoyed her other book more. I wasn't feeling the romance, didn't quite see what Nicholas saw in Emily (she was pretty spoiled). Had a hard time keeping my interest. This may be a case of "its not you, its me." Still look forward to trying more of Ms. Griep's books.
Content
Romance: Pretty clean, just kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild-Moderate. An attempted rape (a little detailed, and recovery was a little rushed/unbelievable). Side character was raped resulting in pregnancy (didn't really like how that was handled)
Religious: Christian - Moderate. Felt a little out of place, I prefer when its more subtle and organic to the story.
Source: Netgalley
August 14, 2019
An exciting story with two characters who drive each other crazy... until they don't ;) I had a difficult time with Emily in the beginning because of her attitude, but as her past was slowly revealed, I grew to understand her a bit more. I enjoy stories set during the Regency era but delve into the lives of those not placed high in Society. It's always a little more gritty, but also interesting and eye-opening to the way of life back then.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
April 25, 2018
4.5 Thoroughly enjoyed. There was one bit I thought worked too neatly, and yet it still worked because I wouldn't have wanted to go through a mess at that late in the book. Lovely romance, constant tension, heroic hero. I just wish he didn't look so strange on the cover...
January 1, 2016
Lady Emily knows her only means of supporting herself in life is to secure a wealthy husband, regardless of any personal faults such a man may have. When her father leaves unexpectedly on business, Nicholas Brentwood is hired by her father to watch over Emily during his absence. She is determined to find the perfect match to secure her future, and Nicholas simply wants the large payment her father has promised him for a job well-done in order to care properly for his sister who is direly ill. Despite clashing from their first meeting, Emily and Nicholas can’t help but be intrigued by each other’s secrets. Unfortunately, they come to realize that some secrets are sought after by others who would do harm to Emily and Brentwood both if they get in the way.
Michelle Griep has blended romance and suspense perfectly Brentwood’s Ward. It’s a spot-on combination of history, romance and suspense. I was pleasant surprised to find it more suspenseful than what I was expecting of a historical novel. Though the plot was obvious at times, the story is well worth the read. The character’s interactions with one another and the unique writing style kept me flipping those Kindle pages. Griep has a writing voice that compels me to pick up her other novels sooner rather than later. There is something special about her descriptions of time, setting and the nuances of character traits—“Ahead, Nicolas stepped back from the row of carriages lined up like infantrymen in front of the curb. In the rush of departing patrons, his figure alone commanded her gaze. How could he, without a word, make such demands?”—this is just a hint of the arresting writing style to be found in this story.
While I can’t speak as one well-versed in Regency life, I feel that Griep follows it fairly closely. Most of the passion and attraction is conveyed in glances and nearness, not out and out displays of affection – although there are several more romantic moments that will make romance readers happy. I also found there to be gritty realism when necessary to Griep’s descriptions that really took the writing up several notches for me.
Lady Emily appears to be a spoiled, pampered brat at the beginning of the story. I had a hard time connecting to her, and understood why Nicholas Brentwood had such a hard time with her. I sometimes felt that the decisions she made to make herself accessible in dangerous situations were a bit naïve. At the same time, Emily vulnerability is clear, and Griep wrote fears and insecurities realistically into Emily’s character as a sheltered, yet headstrong, young woman.
Nicholas’s character actually felt more realistic than I was expecting. Emily’s world is foreign to him, and he doesn’t care to be a part of it, yet at the same time is drawn to her. The little glimpses of the softer side of his character contrasted well with his occupation as an officer in the Bow Street Runners, a pre-cursor to the Metropolitan Police. I found the look into the beginnings of an organized police force to be fascinating and something really unique to a story set in this time period. His profession creates a great contrast between his duty to the law and his sister, and how that conflicted with Emily’s safety
Despite seeming to be complete opposites, Emily and Nicholas are a couple that the reader can truly get behind. Their verbal sparring was humorous, as well as realistically telling of their individual fears, vulnerabilities and mutual attraction.
The plot dragged a bit for me mid-way through the story, but once that passed, the pace really picked up. The narration style did well in propelling the story from scene to scene, as the reader sees the story through the eyes of both Emily and Nicolas. I loved the danger and excitement of the last half of the story and even appreciated the few times that the villain’s point of view came later on in the story. The suspenseful scenes were clear in my mind and happened in way that I could envision easily and realistically.
Along with being utterly entertaining, Brentwood’s Ward also has a lovely faith aspect. For me, the overarching message was that God knew what they needed even before they did and trusting God is ultimately the only certainty in life. Readers who find some novel preachy need not worry here, as spiritual storyline flows naturally into the plot and progression of the character’s stories.
Fans of historical romance will find plenty here to their liking, and suspense lovers will be pleased as well. The delicious blend of romance, intrigue and historical details has now put Michelle Griep on my “watch list,” and I am eager to read her other novels.
This review originally appeared on Straight Off the Page: http://straightoffthepage.com/brentwo.... I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. The opinion expressed here are my own.
Michelle Griep has blended romance and suspense perfectly Brentwood’s Ward. It’s a spot-on combination of history, romance and suspense. I was pleasant surprised to find it more suspenseful than what I was expecting of a historical novel. Though the plot was obvious at times, the story is well worth the read. The character’s interactions with one another and the unique writing style kept me flipping those Kindle pages. Griep has a writing voice that compels me to pick up her other novels sooner rather than later. There is something special about her descriptions of time, setting and the nuances of character traits—“Ahead, Nicolas stepped back from the row of carriages lined up like infantrymen in front of the curb. In the rush of departing patrons, his figure alone commanded her gaze. How could he, without a word, make such demands?”—this is just a hint of the arresting writing style to be found in this story.
While I can’t speak as one well-versed in Regency life, I feel that Griep follows it fairly closely. Most of the passion and attraction is conveyed in glances and nearness, not out and out displays of affection – although there are several more romantic moments that will make romance readers happy. I also found there to be gritty realism when necessary to Griep’s descriptions that really took the writing up several notches for me.
Lady Emily appears to be a spoiled, pampered brat at the beginning of the story. I had a hard time connecting to her, and understood why Nicholas Brentwood had such a hard time with her. I sometimes felt that the decisions she made to make herself accessible in dangerous situations were a bit naïve. At the same time, Emily vulnerability is clear, and Griep wrote fears and insecurities realistically into Emily’s character as a sheltered, yet headstrong, young woman.
Nicholas’s character actually felt more realistic than I was expecting. Emily’s world is foreign to him, and he doesn’t care to be a part of it, yet at the same time is drawn to her. The little glimpses of the softer side of his character contrasted well with his occupation as an officer in the Bow Street Runners, a pre-cursor to the Metropolitan Police. I found the look into the beginnings of an organized police force to be fascinating and something really unique to a story set in this time period. His profession creates a great contrast between his duty to the law and his sister, and how that conflicted with Emily’s safety
Despite seeming to be complete opposites, Emily and Nicholas are a couple that the reader can truly get behind. Their verbal sparring was humorous, as well as realistically telling of their individual fears, vulnerabilities and mutual attraction.
The plot dragged a bit for me mid-way through the story, but once that passed, the pace really picked up. The narration style did well in propelling the story from scene to scene, as the reader sees the story through the eyes of both Emily and Nicolas. I loved the danger and excitement of the last half of the story and even appreciated the few times that the villain’s point of view came later on in the story. The suspenseful scenes were clear in my mind and happened in way that I could envision easily and realistically.
Along with being utterly entertaining, Brentwood’s Ward also has a lovely faith aspect. For me, the overarching message was that God knew what they needed even before they did and trusting God is ultimately the only certainty in life. Readers who find some novel preachy need not worry here, as spiritual storyline flows naturally into the plot and progression of the character’s stories.
Fans of historical romance will find plenty here to their liking, and suspense lovers will be pleased as well. The delicious blend of romance, intrigue and historical details has now put Michelle Griep on my “watch list,” and I am eager to read her other novels.
This review originally appeared on Straight Off the Page: http://straightoffthepage.com/brentwo.... I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. The opinion expressed here are my own.
April 7, 2019
Nicholas Brentwood is a member of the elite Bow Street Runners; a highly trained law enforcement agency for hire, who does not make enough money risking his life for others to provide adequate care for his beloved, terminally ill sister. When offered a lucrative bodyguard position, he accepts; albeit with extreme caution after discovering that others have turned it down.
Emily Payne is beautiful, stubborn, and spoiled; and the fact that her father has hired a personal guard before leaving England on a business trip, has her extremely vexed. Nicholas Brentwood is a formidable character and leaves little room for argument while he investigates potential dangers that hover just below the surface of her pampered lifestyle; even posing as Emily's "cousin"; accompanying her to highly touted social occasions, and joining her on multiple shopping excursions.
The depths of this book are extraordinary; characters who long to be cherished, friends who cannot be trusted, family members who have regrettably "sold their soul", heroes willing to face down evil in its worst form, displays of courage and honor and faithfulness that are remarkable, surrounded by a constant reminder of a God who embodies everlasting love. The cruelty of human nature is gentled by mesmerizing romance within the chapters of this story, which emerges with dignity and grace.
"Brentwood's Ward" is truly an astounding read!
Emily Payne is beautiful, stubborn, and spoiled; and the fact that her father has hired a personal guard before leaving England on a business trip, has her extremely vexed. Nicholas Brentwood is a formidable character and leaves little room for argument while he investigates potential dangers that hover just below the surface of her pampered lifestyle; even posing as Emily's "cousin"; accompanying her to highly touted social occasions, and joining her on multiple shopping excursions.
The depths of this book are extraordinary; characters who long to be cherished, friends who cannot be trusted, family members who have regrettably "sold their soul", heroes willing to face down evil in its worst form, displays of courage and honor and faithfulness that are remarkable, surrounded by a constant reminder of a God who embodies everlasting love. The cruelty of human nature is gentled by mesmerizing romance within the chapters of this story, which emerges with dignity and grace.
"Brentwood's Ward" is truly an astounding read!
July 31, 2015
If you are a fan of regency novels, this is a book you will probably like.
Nicholas Brentwood is a fabulous character right from the beginning of the story and straight through to the end. I really enjoyed the way he handled Emily Payne at the beginning of the book as he dealt with all of her antics and snobbishness. And I loved watching the way his feelings changed for Emily as the story progressed.
Now, Emily Payne is a character that I flat out did not like at the beginning of the book. She appeared snobbish, selfish, and clueless. But, I learned as I kept reading that there were some reasons behind this behavior of hers and this knowledge helped me to understand her better. She ended up growing a lot through the story and became a very likeable character. She did continue to be a very clueless lady in regards to her safety and she took risks that sometimes were hard to comprehend.
I ended up liking this story very much. It had lots of danger, twists and turns, suspense, and romance. I definitely recommend it to fans of regency fiction.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Nicholas Brentwood is a fabulous character right from the beginning of the story and straight through to the end. I really enjoyed the way he handled Emily Payne at the beginning of the book as he dealt with all of her antics and snobbishness. And I loved watching the way his feelings changed for Emily as the story progressed.
Now, Emily Payne is a character that I flat out did not like at the beginning of the book. She appeared snobbish, selfish, and clueless. But, I learned as I kept reading that there were some reasons behind this behavior of hers and this knowledge helped me to understand her better. She ended up growing a lot through the story and became a very likeable character. She did continue to be a very clueless lady in regards to her safety and she took risks that sometimes were hard to comprehend.
I ended up liking this story very much. It had lots of danger, twists and turns, suspense, and romance. I definitely recommend it to fans of regency fiction.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 25, 2023
Brentwood’s Ward by: Michelle Griep
Format: Kindle
Genre: Historical Romance with suspense
Timeframe: 1807
Location: London, England
Characters:
Nicholas Brentwood: Bow Street Runner guardian for Emily Payne
Emily Payne: Nicholas Brentwood’s ward.
Flannery: Slightly unprofessional Bow Street officer
Hope: Street urchin Nicholas gives a job
Nicholas was an officer of the law in London whose magistrate gave him a task he just knew he was going to hate. A wealthy man would be gone a month and was in need of protection for his daughter, someone he could trust. So Nicholas was given the honor. He also got the impression he would be dealing with a spoiled young woman. He was right.
Emily simply wanted to shop. Suddenly she was saddled with a hulking guardian spoiling her outings. Evidently he has every right to keep close tabs on her as she was not only thoughtlessly impulsive, needing to be saved regularly, but bad guys seem to be around every corner ready to do her harm.
My thoughts:
Emily turned out to be fairly endearing, with a good heart despite her penchant for trips to the milliners, sometimes just to irritate Nicholas.
And the brawny Bow Street runner (aka her guardian), was not only handsome, but a God-fearing, gentle man. Nicholas’s faith was a living, active thing. He melted my heart when a man was dying, and Nicholas’s words to him before he passed on were, ““Call on Christ alone for mercy, man. Now is the time.”
I enjoyed this book by Michelle Griep. Plenty of action and danger, tempered by a growing fondness between the characters and benevolence shown toward others.
Fun banter and interactions made me laugh out loud, especially the scene with the oranges when another officer had to go undercover as a woman.
As for the physical reactions between characters…mentioning a kiss or two doesn’t bother me, but when it turns into "drawing her hips against his" I get uncomfortable. And talk about how she “tastes”… It’s just.. ick for me.
Aside from that, and maybe a few things that I wondered about at the end (like, whatever happened to the key mold he pocketed?) the story flowed fairly well.
The writing is stunning at times. You know when you run across a descriptive sentence that makes you smile and find the need to re-read it just because of how fun it was? Can Ms. Griep turn a phrase! Oh, to be able to write like that. But seriously, I'm content just to enjoy others' God given creativity! I'm delighted that writers like Michelle Griep have recognize their call, and use their words not only as a way to entertain us, but also as a ministry.
Format: Kindle
Genre: Historical Romance with suspense
Timeframe: 1807
Location: London, England
Characters:
Nicholas Brentwood: Bow Street Runner guardian for Emily Payne
Emily Payne: Nicholas Brentwood’s ward.
Flannery: Slightly unprofessional Bow Street officer
Hope: Street urchin Nicholas gives a job
Nicholas was an officer of the law in London whose magistrate gave him a task he just knew he was going to hate. A wealthy man would be gone a month and was in need of protection for his daughter, someone he could trust. So Nicholas was given the honor. He also got the impression he would be dealing with a spoiled young woman. He was right.
Emily simply wanted to shop. Suddenly she was saddled with a hulking guardian spoiling her outings. Evidently he has every right to keep close tabs on her as she was not only thoughtlessly impulsive, needing to be saved regularly, but bad guys seem to be around every corner ready to do her harm.
My thoughts:
Emily turned out to be fairly endearing, with a good heart despite her penchant for trips to the milliners, sometimes just to irritate Nicholas.
And the brawny Bow Street runner (aka her guardian), was not only handsome, but a God-fearing, gentle man. Nicholas’s faith was a living, active thing. He melted my heart when a man was dying, and Nicholas’s words to him before he passed on were, ““Call on Christ alone for mercy, man. Now is the time.”
I enjoyed this book by Michelle Griep. Plenty of action and danger, tempered by a growing fondness between the characters and benevolence shown toward others.
Fun banter and interactions made me laugh out loud, especially the scene with the oranges when another officer had to go undercover as a woman.
As for the physical reactions between characters…mentioning a kiss or two doesn’t bother me, but when it turns into "drawing her hips against his" I get uncomfortable. And talk about how she “tastes”… It’s just.. ick for me.
Aside from that, and maybe a few things that I wondered about at the end (like, whatever happened to the key mold he pocketed?) the story flowed fairly well.
The writing is stunning at times. You know when you run across a descriptive sentence that makes you smile and find the need to re-read it just because of how fun it was? Can Ms. Griep turn a phrase! Oh, to be able to write like that. But seriously, I'm content just to enjoy others' God given creativity! I'm delighted that writers like Michelle Griep have recognize their call, and use their words not only as a way to entertain us, but also as a ministry.
July 30, 2018
What started out as a fun adventure with a Sherlock Holmes sort of lead turned out to be a confused-toned flop for me. The mystery aspect was fantastic, so the Holmes-y quality carried my interest past the junk, but barely.
At times, the tone was light and cheery and fun, but often it shifted into a brash, tawdry, sultry thing that gave me the willies. Of course, the profanities, expletives, replacement expletives, and a derogatory term or two that showed up fairly regularly did nothing to help and everything to hurt my opinion of this book. They only served to cause the dialogue to become quite trashy in large patches, rather than create “atmosphere,” as I’m sure was intended.
I didn’t appreciate the cross-dressing scene, either.
Other content included tobacco products, alcohol and drunkenness, and violence associated with crime dramas. These were all handled pretty well, though I noticed a time or two there were a couple of gory details. They were brief, for which I was grateful.
Brentwood won me over in the first incident with a mite of a street urchin… and then promptly lost me again when he spouted off and used God’s name in vain two or three times. That is such unbecoming behavior for a Christian lead, and for any character in a Christian-labeled book. It isn’t what I care at all to read in this genre.
I think there will be many fans of this book. It’s quite entertaining with many twists. It fell short for me, but I’ve many a Goodreads friend who have enjoyed it.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
At times, the tone was light and cheery and fun, but often it shifted into a brash, tawdry, sultry thing that gave me the willies. Of course, the profanities, expletives, replacement expletives, and a derogatory term or two that showed up fairly regularly did nothing to help and everything to hurt my opinion of this book. They only served to cause the dialogue to become quite trashy in large patches, rather than create “atmosphere,” as I’m sure was intended.
I didn’t appreciate the cross-dressing scene, either.
Other content included tobacco products, alcohol and drunkenness, and violence associated with crime dramas. These were all handled pretty well, though I noticed a time or two there were a couple of gory details. They were brief, for which I was grateful.
Brentwood won me over in the first incident with a mite of a street urchin… and then promptly lost me again when he spouted off and used God’s name in vain two or three times. That is such unbecoming behavior for a Christian lead, and for any character in a Christian-labeled book. It isn’t what I care at all to read in this genre.
I think there will be many fans of this book. It’s quite entertaining with many twists. It fell short for me, but I’ve many a Goodreads friend who have enjoyed it.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
August 10, 2021
Plot - 4
Writing style - 4
Characters - 3.5
Romance - 4
In which a rich young girl is stuck with a handsome investigator who is bossy.
Plot - was intrigued for a second but grew tired of it later. A few boring moments here and there. However, I must say, the first 5 chapters will hook you.
Writing style - have no problem with the writing style, just with the turn of events and perhaps the monologues but no worries, I did find the dialogues a bit hilarous.
Characters - I like how the heroine absolutely loves fashion and a bit of reckless instead of those typical heroine where she prefers sword over fashion. I mean, come on, we have to be realistic here.
Anyways, the male protagonist is okay as well. Really smart and observant, if you ask me although I just can't really connect with him.
Romance - let me tell you this, the romance has potential until the male protagonist declared he loves her. I mean, wait a minute, dude, you hardly show some affection to her and now you're telling me you're in love with her? Unbelievable indeed.
In short, the romance felt really bland.
Writing style - 4
Characters - 3.5
Romance - 4
In which a rich young girl is stuck with a handsome investigator who is bossy.
Plot - was intrigued for a second but grew tired of it later. A few boring moments here and there. However, I must say, the first 5 chapters will hook you.
Writing style - have no problem with the writing style, just with the turn of events and perhaps the monologues but no worries, I did find the dialogues a bit hilarous.
Characters - I like how the heroine absolutely loves fashion and a bit of reckless instead of those typical heroine where she prefers sword over fashion. I mean, come on, we have to be realistic here.
Anyways, the male protagonist is okay as well. Really smart and observant, if you ask me although I just can't really connect with him.
Romance - let me tell you this, the romance has potential until the male protagonist declared he loves her. I mean, wait a minute, dude, you hardly show some affection to her and now you're telling me you're in love with her? Unbelievable indeed.
In short, the romance felt really bland.
March 31, 2016
4.5 stars
In this story, featuring a Bow Street Officer and a privileged young lady in Regency England, lives are at stake and fortunes come and go in the blink of an eye...
Emily is determined to marry the most eligible bachelor of the season and loves nothing more than her pug Alf and her wardrobe full of bonnets and hats. She's headstrong and impulsive, and her father cannot control her whims.
When Nicholas Brentwood is assigned as her temporary guardian, sparks are sure to fly.
I loved the fresh take on a Regency-era setting and the perspective on the Bow Street force.
16+ for some intense kissing near the end and a scene of attempted rape and a discussion of past rape resulting a woman's pregnancy.
In this story, featuring a Bow Street Officer and a privileged young lady in Regency England, lives are at stake and fortunes come and go in the blink of an eye...
Emily is determined to marry the most eligible bachelor of the season and loves nothing more than her pug Alf and her wardrobe full of bonnets and hats. She's headstrong and impulsive, and her father cannot control her whims.
When Nicholas Brentwood is assigned as her temporary guardian, sparks are sure to fly.
I loved the fresh take on a Regency-era setting and the perspective on the Bow Street force.
16+ for some intense kissing near the end and a scene of attempted rape and a discussion of past rape resulting a woman's pregnancy.
January 22, 2025
Where do I start with this novel? First let me say I bought this as a clearance audiobook to listen to on a lonely drive. Now I will be purchasing a hard copy to reread.
Michelle Griep masterfully plunks you down into the world of London in such a way you never realize you are not actually there. It is as if you are the one interacting with the setting, not some fictional character. I have never seen that done is such a masterful way.
The characters of Nick Brentwood and Emily Payne are so true to life you feel as if they are living, breathing people whom you are intimately familiar with. Their emotions are you emotions. Their thoughts, yours.
I have a knack for seeing twists before they happen, but I certainly did not see the many twists inserted so skillfully into the plot. If you want suspense, justice, and romance mixed with a whole lot of history, there is no better book out there.
The immersion into Brentwood’s and Emily’s world was so complete I would sit in my car for over an hour waiting for a point when I could break free of my trance. Only the knocking on the window by my concerned children forced me to hit the pause button. When the flu kept me from driving, I snuck out to my car, grabbed the disc, and played it in my bed until it had reached its more than satisfying ending.
Brentwood’s Ward is historical fiction at its best. You would be grievously robbed of an unforgettable experience if you don’t read it! Beware though, it is like a potato chip – you can’t just have one… chapter that is. Once you pick it up, you will never want to put it down.
Thank you, Michelle, for a fantastic book. I cannot wait to read more of your work.
Michelle Griep masterfully plunks you down into the world of London in such a way you never realize you are not actually there. It is as if you are the one interacting with the setting, not some fictional character. I have never seen that done is such a masterful way.
The characters of Nick Brentwood and Emily Payne are so true to life you feel as if they are living, breathing people whom you are intimately familiar with. Their emotions are you emotions. Their thoughts, yours.
I have a knack for seeing twists before they happen, but I certainly did not see the many twists inserted so skillfully into the plot. If you want suspense, justice, and romance mixed with a whole lot of history, there is no better book out there.
The immersion into Brentwood’s and Emily’s world was so complete I would sit in my car for over an hour waiting for a point when I could break free of my trance. Only the knocking on the window by my concerned children forced me to hit the pause button. When the flu kept me from driving, I snuck out to my car, grabbed the disc, and played it in my bed until it had reached its more than satisfying ending.
Brentwood’s Ward is historical fiction at its best. You would be grievously robbed of an unforgettable experience if you don’t read it! Beware though, it is like a potato chip – you can’t just have one… chapter that is. Once you pick it up, you will never want to put it down.
Thank you, Michelle, for a fantastic book. I cannot wait to read more of your work.
September 18, 2014
Michelle Griep skillfully weaves together drama, mystery, and romance in Brentwood's Ward. She brings Regency London to life for her readers. Those who enjoyed a Heart Decived will be deligted with this new story.
July 7, 2014
Michelle Griep has never failed to deliver outstanding historical fiction. This latest offering went one step further than spectacular by adding an element of suspense that had me alternating between biting my nails and flipping pages! Excellent!!
October 11, 2017
This is one of the most well written books I have read in a long time. I really related to the hero, and spoiled females usually get on my nerves, but not in this case. The romance was not rushed and neither were the changes the characters went through. I can’t wait to read another by this author.
August 3, 2018
Audiobook Review
This was a Christian Historical Romance that I thought was very good. The plot was good and and the story was well-written. It also had its share of mystery and twists and turns.
Nicholas Brentwood is a very astute, down-to-earth lawman...Bow Street Runner, who is put in an awkward situation due to personal reasons. He is given an opportunity to better his circumstances by becoming the guardian of a very spoiled Emily Payne. He eventually finds out why no one else wanted to take on the task as she is determined to find a husband during the season, as well as put her life in danger at every turn. Nicholas, on the other hand, needs the money in order to save his ailing sister and agrees to guard Emily...theres where the trouble begins.
The characters go through a series of loss and rescues that leaves their personal desires to nought. In the end, they find love and discover that God is in charge and controled every mishaps through their journey to stay alive and reach their HEA.
The heroine was irritating and her naivity showed when the hero had to rescuee her too many times because of her pig-headedness and not staying put as told. Although the story had very few passionate scenes, the love between the major characters was evident. A nice faith-based love story that I thought was very refreshing, especially for the hero in the story. He let his faith lead and guide him in his walk as a lawman. A clean romance novel by Michele Griep that I would recommend to anyone who from time to time want to read clean romance.
Narration was by Pam Purlow and was spot on. The music between Chapters did irk me a bit as it made it seem as if the story was coming to an end. The music was not necessary.
4-Stars
This was a Christian Historical Romance that I thought was very good. The plot was good and and the story was well-written. It also had its share of mystery and twists and turns.
Nicholas Brentwood is a very astute, down-to-earth lawman...Bow Street Runner, who is put in an awkward situation due to personal reasons. He is given an opportunity to better his circumstances by becoming the guardian of a very spoiled Emily Payne. He eventually finds out why no one else wanted to take on the task as she is determined to find a husband during the season, as well as put her life in danger at every turn. Nicholas, on the other hand, needs the money in order to save his ailing sister and agrees to guard Emily...theres where the trouble begins.
The characters go through a series of loss and rescues that leaves their personal desires to nought. In the end, they find love and discover that God is in charge and controled every mishaps through their journey to stay alive and reach their HEA.
The heroine was irritating and her naivity showed when the hero had to rescuee her too many times because of her pig-headedness and not staying put as told. Although the story had very few passionate scenes, the love between the major characters was evident. A nice faith-based love story that I thought was very refreshing, especially for the hero in the story. He let his faith lead and guide him in his walk as a lawman. A clean romance novel by Michele Griep that I would recommend to anyone who from time to time want to read clean romance.
Narration was by Pam Purlow and was spot on. The music between Chapters did irk me a bit as it made it seem as if the story was coming to an end. The music was not necessary.
4-Stars
February 27, 2024
3⭐️
A man needing money to help his dying sister find medical relief accepts a job from a wealthy man needing someone to keep an eye on his trouble-finding daughter while he is away. While not his preferred type of job, Nicholas accepts the position to be Emily’s guardian. Emily, however is not pleased with this arrangement, for it is her goal to attend every social function as to hopefully catch the eye of a handsome, wealthy suitor who will marry her.
When Emily’s uncle (and her father’s business partner) turns up dead, it seems there is more going on with this arrangement…
I don’t understand the MMC & FMC falling in love…he’s physically attracted to her, but every time they interact, it seems he is annoyed or irritated by her (understandably as she is quite immature)
I also felt the climax/resolution of the conflict a bit convoluted
Language: 1 abuse of God’s name
A man needing money to help his dying sister find medical relief accepts a job from a wealthy man needing someone to keep an eye on his trouble-finding daughter while he is away. While not his preferred type of job, Nicholas accepts the position to be Emily’s guardian. Emily, however is not pleased with this arrangement, for it is her goal to attend every social function as to hopefully catch the eye of a handsome, wealthy suitor who will marry her.
When Emily’s uncle (and her father’s business partner) turns up dead, it seems there is more going on with this arrangement…
I don’t understand the MMC & FMC falling in love…he’s physically attracted to her, but every time they interact, it seems he is annoyed or irritated by her (understandably as she is quite immature)
I also felt the climax/resolution of the conflict a bit convoluted
Language: 1 abuse of God’s name
June 23, 2019
The Bow Street Runners was the precursor of the London Metropolitan police force. Nicholas Brentwood is a down-to-earth, sharp minded lawman. When he is given the job of protecting very spoiled, very rich Emily Payne. Emily has only one desire on her mind and that is to obtain a rich husband during the season. This leads both Nicholas and Emily into numerous situations that bring danger to them both. Emily always seems to be in danger which results in Nicholas having to continually rush in to rescue her. There were definitely some comical minutes throughout the story that made me laugh in between holding my breath in suspense. In the end, both Emily and Nicholas realize that God was in control throughout their mishaps which lead to a HEA ending.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series: The Noble Guardian.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series: The Noble Guardian.
January 23, 2023
Another great suspenseful romantic novel from Griep. This one definitely kept my attention and threw me for loops with unexpected plot twists. The narrator was absolutely perfect and her inflections made the banter between Emily and Nicholas all the more hilarious.
A great start to a series I'm really looking forward to continuing.
I will mention there is a trigger warning of attempted rape, but the scene ends before anything actually happens.
A great start to a series I'm really looking forward to continuing.
I will mention there is a trigger warning of attempted rape, but the scene ends before anything actually happens.
December 30, 2022
The plot was a little challenging at times to follow, as the secondary characters tended to blend together and I kept forgetting who was who. But I did love the storyline and the two main characters.
June 23, 2018
The only reason I picked up this book is because I received the second in the series free via netgalley, and being a bit OCD on series, had to read the first one before I tackled the second one.
I’m very glad I read this book and quite surprised I haven’t heard of Michelle Griep before now. The regency era is probably my favourite of historical fiction and when suspense (my favourite genre) is added in, this made for an enjoyable read. Even though some of the plot was predictable, the suspense and few plot twists made this a quick read.
Nicholas Brentwood was quite the dashing hero in this book. His strong character won me from the start and the way he was strict, straight but gentle with Emily made him a lovable male lead.
Emily on the other-hand I did not like at first. She was shallow and snobbish and hard to like and very naïve which landed her in a few uncomfortable situations. The redemption and growth her character went through was well written.
What I liked most about this book was the faith of Nicholas and his sister Jenny. It was solid and strong and the faith messages contained in these pages something which spoke to me which I would take away with me.
I enjoyed the other Bow Street Runners as well and look forward to the rest of the series.
I’m very glad I read this book and quite surprised I haven’t heard of Michelle Griep before now. The regency era is probably my favourite of historical fiction and when suspense (my favourite genre) is added in, this made for an enjoyable read. Even though some of the plot was predictable, the suspense and few plot twists made this a quick read.
Nicholas Brentwood was quite the dashing hero in this book. His strong character won me from the start and the way he was strict, straight but gentle with Emily made him a lovable male lead.
Emily on the other-hand I did not like at first. She was shallow and snobbish and hard to like and very naïve which landed her in a few uncomfortable situations. The redemption and growth her character went through was well written.
What I liked most about this book was the faith of Nicholas and his sister Jenny. It was solid and strong and the faith messages contained in these pages something which spoke to me which I would take away with me.
I enjoyed the other Bow Street Runners as well and look forward to the rest of the series.
January 26, 2015
I follow the author on Pinterest and I've been intrigued by the BW pinboard, and anxiously waiting for the book. So glad I finally got the chance to read it!
Although it's Regency, it's quite different from "A Heart Deceived". There's intrigue, adventure, and a very swoony romance, of course. The main theme of "God is in Charge" is expertly done, woven in with the story and characters, and it never feels preachy.
Emily starts out as slightly annoying in her childish actions, but the growth she goes through as a character is uplifting and encouraging.
Nicholas is a very attractive protagonist. We know from the start is doing the job to help his sister but the more he gets to know Emily, the more his opinion about her changes for the better. I loved the way their relationship progressed.
I have no reservations in recommending this book to anyone who appreciates a good historical novel with strong characters and a compelling setting.
Although it's Regency, it's quite different from "A Heart Deceived". There's intrigue, adventure, and a very swoony romance, of course. The main theme of "God is in Charge" is expertly done, woven in with the story and characters, and it never feels preachy.
Emily starts out as slightly annoying in her childish actions, but the growth she goes through as a character is uplifting and encouraging.
Nicholas is a very attractive protagonist. We know from the start is doing the job to help his sister but the more he gets to know Emily, the more his opinion about her changes for the better. I loved the way their relationship progressed.
I have no reservations in recommending this book to anyone who appreciates a good historical novel with strong characters and a compelling setting.
May 16, 2015
I unsuccessfully applied to Netgalley for an ARC, & so it feels like it's been forever waiting for this book to be published! Got a copy from my local library in the 'new' books section & was so excited. This is the first of Michelle Griep's books I have read & I shall certainly be looking for more. This story, a good mix of romance, murder, abductions - mixed in with the latter part of London's Georgian social scene. Based around the 'Bow Street Runners' (the precursor to the London Met), this book has enough mix to produce a story that always leaves you guessing, not too predictable, with all the right chemistry between the 2 main characters, Nicholas & Emily. The story is enhanced with the right amount of Christian reminders that God is in control, without being too heavy that it overwhelms the story. Loved it, looking forward to the next one.
October 27, 2024
“I’ve found that God is more than enough, even in the direst of situations”
I found this historical romance to be a fun, easy read. I’ll be honest and admit that I thought that Emily was a bit whiny and shallow at first but I enjoyed watching her grow and mature. I enjoyed watching her relationship with Nicholas grow as they got to know each other and as Emily matured. The mystery was interesting and helped move the story along as they learned to work together. Nicholas’s character interested me enough that I found myself looking up information on the real Bow Street Runners. There were a couple of darker aspects like an attempted rape in one scene and the discussion of a previous rape that had resulted in a pregnancy, but for me it didn’t detract from the story. Those kinds of things really do happen and I feel like Michelle Griep handled it pretty well. Overall, I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I found this historical romance to be a fun, easy read. I’ll be honest and admit that I thought that Emily was a bit whiny and shallow at first but I enjoyed watching her grow and mature. I enjoyed watching her relationship with Nicholas grow as they got to know each other and as Emily matured. The mystery was interesting and helped move the story along as they learned to work together. Nicholas’s character interested me enough that I found myself looking up information on the real Bow Street Runners. There were a couple of darker aspects like an attempted rape in one scene and the discussion of a previous rape that had resulted in a pregnancy, but for me it didn’t detract from the story. Those kinds of things really do happen and I feel like Michelle Griep handled it pretty well. Overall, I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
June 22, 2022
I simply cannot get enough of Michelle Griep.
July 12, 2017
This book just didn't do it for me.
There were a lot of elements that I liked: the Regency era, the Bow Street Runners, general girl-and-guy-hate-each-other-but-are-falling-for-one-another-ness, and a mystery to solve; unfortunately, they didn't ever come together in a way that I liked, leaving me with a wistful 'what could have been.'
My favorite part of the book is Brentwood himself. He's smart and strong, he's persistent and bossy, he's rough around the edges but dedicated to his work. But he's also quite kind and caring, as we see in his relationships with Jenny and Hope and, eventually, Emily. I was fascinated by his work as a Bow Street Runner, but I wish we would've gotten a better sense of how Brentwood ended up in his position. I liked that he was willing to put himself on the line to solve the case, and I appreciated his blunt honesty in dealing with his ornery ward.
And ornery she is. Emily really ruined this book for me. She's spoiled, selfish, and nosy in a bad way. Her focus on finding a husband puts her in dangerous situations that she then has to be rescued from, and she rarely listens when people try to keep out of danger. I will admit that Emily grew as the story progressed, but the growth took too long and didn't feel very real to me. Even after having been attacked and almost kidnapped, Emily still insists on wandering the streets by herself, despite having been repeatedly told not to do that very thing. Her lack of common sense just irked me, and it was quite at odds with her skills in observation and deduction; Brentwood says that maybe Emily should apply for a Bow Street position, but with her showy temper tantrums and her penchant for winding up in unsavory situations, she'd end up dead or worse before too long.
Maybe other readers see something in Emily that I didn't, but I just couldn't stand her, and although I knew she and Brentwood would inevitably end up together, I could never quite believe the progression of their relationship. I can't believe that Brentwood's desire to keep Emily safe would last that long when she repeatedly ignores him to do whatever she wants, and I can't believe that Emily could love anything other than her dog and bonnets enough to lower her social standing.
All that being said, the writing itself is pretty solid. I liked the descriptions of the city and the houses, the POVs were varied and distinct, and there was a nice balance of showing vs. telling. If the mystery had made a little more sense and if Emily had been less irritating, this probably would've been a pretty solid 3 stars. As it is, 3 stars feels generous, but I would be willing to give the author another chance--as long as I can find a heroine that doesn't make me want to shake some sense into her.
There were a lot of elements that I liked: the Regency era, the Bow Street Runners, general girl-and-guy-hate-each-other-but-are-falling-for-one-another-ness, and a mystery to solve; unfortunately, they didn't ever come together in a way that I liked, leaving me with a wistful 'what could have been.'
My favorite part of the book is Brentwood himself. He's smart and strong, he's persistent and bossy, he's rough around the edges but dedicated to his work. But he's also quite kind and caring, as we see in his relationships with Jenny and Hope and, eventually, Emily. I was fascinated by his work as a Bow Street Runner, but I wish we would've gotten a better sense of how Brentwood ended up in his position. I liked that he was willing to put himself on the line to solve the case, and I appreciated his blunt honesty in dealing with his ornery ward.
And ornery she is. Emily really ruined this book for me. She's spoiled, selfish, and nosy in a bad way. Her focus on finding a husband puts her in dangerous situations that she then has to be rescued from, and she rarely listens when people try to keep out of danger. I will admit that Emily grew as the story progressed, but the growth took too long and didn't feel very real to me. Even after having been attacked and almost kidnapped, Emily still insists on wandering the streets by herself, despite having been repeatedly told not to do that very thing. Her lack of common sense just irked me, and it was quite at odds with her skills in observation and deduction; Brentwood says that maybe Emily should apply for a Bow Street position, but with her showy temper tantrums and her penchant for winding up in unsavory situations, she'd end up dead or worse before too long.
Maybe other readers see something in Emily that I didn't, but I just couldn't stand her, and although I knew she and Brentwood would inevitably end up together, I could never quite believe the progression of their relationship. I can't believe that Brentwood's desire to keep Emily safe would last that long when she repeatedly ignores him to do whatever she wants, and I can't believe that Emily could love anything other than her dog and bonnets enough to lower her social standing.
All that being said, the writing itself is pretty solid. I liked the descriptions of the city and the houses, the POVs were varied and distinct, and there was a nice balance of showing vs. telling. If the mystery had made a little more sense and if Emily had been less irritating, this probably would've been a pretty solid 3 stars. As it is, 3 stars feels generous, but I would be willing to give the author another chance--as long as I can find a heroine that doesn't make me want to shake some sense into her.
December 4, 2014
Emily Payne has been left in the care of a man she has quickly grown to dislike. After her father leaves on an undisclosed business trip Emily is thrust into the care of Nicholas Brentwood. Stoic, secretive and quiet Emily just knows he's going to ruin her chances of snagging a wealthy husband. And if there's something she doesn't need it's someone to repel suitors. So ensues a messy season fraught with intrigue, death and witless suitors.
Michelle Griep receives rave reviews. I own a title by her, but have never quite gotten around to reading it. When Brentwood's Ward came up for a review I thought I would go ahead and see what all the fuss was about. That "fuss" was well-placed. This was a great tale with Gothic elements, a sassy heroine and cold hero. Everything that was behind the mysteries was gradually revealed over a period of time and if I had been sitting on a chair while reading the story would have kept me at the edge of it.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “Brentwood's Ward” provided by the publishers, Shiloh Run Press, through Netgalley.com in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
Michelle Griep receives rave reviews. I own a title by her, but have never quite gotten around to reading it. When Brentwood's Ward came up for a review I thought I would go ahead and see what all the fuss was about. That "fuss" was well-placed. This was a great tale with Gothic elements, a sassy heroine and cold hero. Everything that was behind the mysteries was gradually revealed over a period of time and if I had been sitting on a chair while reading the story would have kept me at the edge of it.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “Brentwood's Ward” provided by the publishers, Shiloh Run Press, through Netgalley.com in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
February 20, 2017
I wanted to like this book but there were just a few things made it difficult. the plot was interesting until the end when the plot just seemed to conviently work out all around. and one of the villains has a major change of heart at the drop of a hat it seems. I feel that the author had plenty of description and development of plot in some areas and in others, it was severely lacking. There also were many historical inaccuracies that made certain aspects of the plot difficult to believe. Such as her living with an unmarried man without a chaperone even if they tried to pass him off as a cousin. The heroine's change of heart was underdeveloped and her old maid Wren's story is lacking a conclusion and explanation of her part in the ending.
The author had several supporting characters that were almost all underdeveloped with hints at their back stories that prompted questions that were never answered.
there were a few scenes that made me laugh out loud that were really enjoyable. I also enjoyed the bantering of the two main characters even if some of it was forced at times.
The author had several supporting characters that were almost all underdeveloped with hints at their back stories that prompted questions that were never answered.
there were a few scenes that made me laugh out loud that were really enjoyable. I also enjoyed the bantering of the two main characters even if some of it was forced at times.
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