A Promise At Ashford Grove

by Ava Sinclair

In the quiet English village of Ashford Grove, healing arrives when least expected.

When Clara Whitfield accepts a position as governess to a widower’s three children, she expects order, routine, and distance. What she finds instead is a house weighed down by grief, children learning how to laugh again, and a man who has closed his heart to love.

Edward “Ned” Marlow has already lost the woman he loved once. His life now revolves around his children and the careful silence of a home shaped by absence. Clara’s presence came as gentle, patient, and unassuming, which slowly, brings warmth back into their days, stirring hope where sorrow once lived.

But kindness invites whispers, and propriety draws lines Clara is determined not to cross. As affection deepens and the past casts long shadows, Clara must decide whether a love that’s true, steady, and honorable is something to be feared… or embraced.

62 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 15, 2026

About the author

Ava Sinclair writes romantic contemporary fiction about second chances, heartfelt connection, and the courage it takes to choose love again.

Her stories are set in beautiful, escapist locations and follow characters who are rebuilding their lives after disappointment, burnout, or lost dreams. Through slow-burn romance and emotionally honest storytelling, Ava explores the idea that love often arrives not when life is perfect—but when the heart is finally open.

When she’s not writing, Ava enjoys travel-inspired daydreams, strong coffee, and collecting moments that feel like the beginning of a love story.

Reviews

[Jenna Hoodenpyle · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was severly disapointed with this book. I was hoping for a Sound of Music plot with great depth, connection, and romance, but I did not connect with this book.
Right from the start, I was worried about how short the book was. I consistently felt like there was no build-up for the characters, their relationships, and their actions. While about halfway through, I noted how the scenes were descriptive, but lacked depth. Additionally, I thought there was potential for romance, but since the book was so short their was no time for background, tension, or conversations. I felt like the challenges went by in a blink. It feels as if Ned and Clara have never had a full conversation before he even furthers the relationship. All in all, I did not enjoy this book as much as I had hoped.

Thank you to BookBuzz and NetGalley for providing me with a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Promise At Ashford Grove completely stole my heart right from the start. I was pulled into Ashford Grove and never wanted to leave because the emotions feel real, the characters feel human, and the love builds in the sweetest way possible. I adored watching Clara bring laughter back into a house that forgot how to breathe, and I found myself rooting hard for every quiet moment between her and Ned. If you love slow burn romance, found family vibes, and stories that make you feel warm all over, you need this book in your life. 🌿📖

[Nicole Normand · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy from NetGalley and I'm willingly leaving a review
Where was the horse when the rain stopped and "they walked home side by side"? He came to her on a horse... Why did Ethan say "don't let her go this time"? Ned thought "he could not let Clara Winslow disappear from his life. Not again". and mean there was another instance when she left or wanted to but that never happened so I'm really confused by the wording. The story is good, quiet, clean, and believable. The ending is quite cheesy with a lot of thank yous (eye roll here).

[Abigail L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a comforting and heartfelt read. A Promise at Ashford Grove follows Clara, a governess who brings warmth and light into a grieving household, and the slow, careful romance that grows as a result. I loved how the story focused on healing and family just as much as love, and how the relationships felt earned rather than rushed. I found myself completely absorbed in the quiet moments, especially the way the children slowly come back to life, and I honestly did not want it to end.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a wholesome read. This book has Clara traveling to be a governess for a widower, Edward, and his three children.  Clara brings light, laughter, and understanding into a household full of pain. Rumors begin to start in town, but are quickly squashed which I appreciated.

If you're looking for a quick read palate cleanser you definitely want to pick this one up. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. This sweet , short novella set in the 1800’s in England was the perfect read for a snowy, Saturday afternoon. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella it was a quick , delightful read , hopefully the author will expand of these characters for a future, longer sequel.

[Aimee F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short story that is the gentlest of romance. If you loved when Maria and the Captain fall in love in Sound of Music, then you'll love this as well. Also reminded me of the book "Loves Comes Softly."
For it's shortness and sweetness a simple 5⭐

Thanks to Netgalley and Ava Sinclair, opinions are my own.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet novella written in the style of the 1800s. It is a story of finding hope in the midst of loss. I hope this author will one day turn this into a longer novel to add depth to the characters and the story. This is a lovely quick read.

[Paige Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soft Hearts, Strong Love, and a Story That Stays With You
A Promise at Ashford Grove is a beautifully tender romance that proves love does not have to be loud to be powerful.