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Promise of Forever After #3
Her Unexpected Courtship: Forever After Retellings
Isabel Reed has promised to marry for love. At present her heart belongs to the one companion she knows accepts all her eccentricities—her horse. So when her older brother threatens to trade the animal on a whim, Isabel must force aside her progressive beliefs and bargain to entertain her brother's flirtatious, albeit handsome, friend Lucas Lincroft in exchange for keeping her horse.
Lucas is on the brink of madness—after a year’s worth of visits, he loves Isabel and is ready to propose. When it seems like she has finally come to feel the same, he foolishly believes he's won her heart.
After a botched proposal from Lucas, Isabel makes it her mission to prove his affections for her are misplaced. But Lucas is determined not to give up his pursuit, and as Isabel comes to know him and his heart, she must work to save herself from losing not only her horse, but the most equal love match she never thought possible.
Lucas is on the brink of madness—after a year’s worth of visits, he loves Isabel and is ready to propose. When it seems like she has finally come to feel the same, he foolishly believes he's won her heart.
After a botched proposal from Lucas, Isabel makes it her mission to prove his affections for her are misplaced. But Lucas is determined not to give up his pursuit, and as Isabel comes to know him and his heart, she must work to save herself from losing not only her horse, but the most equal love match she never thought possible.
Audible Audio
First published August 1, 2020
About the author
Megan Walker
6 books1,158 followersMegan Walker was raised on a berry farm in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, where her imagination took her to times past and worlds away. While earning her degree in Early Childhood Education, she married her one true love and started a family. But her imaginings of Regency England wouldn't leave her alone, so she picked up a pen. And the rest is history. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri, with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
December 23, 2020
I enjoyed this novella. It was very different then any plot line I have read. I am enjoying books where the leading man makes it plain he is interested and needs to convince the girl. When done right this works. Sweet proper romance with no religion.
September 1, 2020
Too short so sweet
I loved this novella so much! It was so fun having the guy be in love with the girl from the get go! No guessing and second guessing. Isabel is such a fun character and Fred is a punk. But Lucas is pretty perfect. Loved it! Such a fun series!
I loved this novella so much! It was so fun having the guy be in love with the girl from the get go! No guessing and second guessing. Isabel is such a fun character and Fred is a punk. But Lucas is pretty perfect. Loved it! Such a fun series!
August 1, 2024
Sweet novella.
Lucas, who has been in love with Isabel for the last year, only falls deeper in love with her, when she wants to prove to him that they aren't suited.
She never saw him clearly as a man worth knowing better, because he kept company with her idiotic brother (I hated the brother... he was a walking cliché), when in reality Lucas had tried to keep the brother out of trouble because Lucas was enamored with Isabel.
It took Isabel some time to get over her (false) believes and to appreciate Lucas's genuineness.
I loved that Lucas never wavered in his love for Isabel, although she rejected him.
I adored Lucas and enjoyed Isabel's prickly but honest attitude.
They made a lovely pair.
There were a few things that I wasn't the biggest fan of, but overall it was a very enjoyable novella. I'll definitely read more by this author.
Lucas, who has been in love with Isabel for the last year, only falls deeper in love with her, when she wants to prove to him that they aren't suited.
She never saw him clearly as a man worth knowing better, because he kept company with her idiotic brother (I hated the brother... he was a walking cliché), when in reality Lucas had tried to keep the brother out of trouble because Lucas was enamored with Isabel.
It took Isabel some time to get over her (false) believes and to appreciate Lucas's genuineness.
I loved that Lucas never wavered in his love for Isabel, although she rejected him.
I adored Lucas and enjoyed Isabel's prickly but honest attitude.
They made a lovely pair.
There were a few things that I wasn't the biggest fan of, but overall it was a very enjoyable novella. I'll definitely read more by this author.
September 5, 2020
Sadly, I just didn't connect with the heroine or story. It was just an ok read for me. I loved this authors book, Lakeshire Park, so maybe my expectations were too high going into this one? I'm going to give the rest of this series a try.
Content: Clean romance, no language or violence
Content: Clean romance, no language or violence
March 24, 2026
A cutie little novella!
I loved Isabel’s determination to “show” Lucas how unfit they were for each other - and how he just saw them as great attributes and it didn’t dissuade him.
I’m excited to read the other friend’s stories!
I loved Isabel’s determination to “show” Lucas how unfit they were for each other - and how he just saw them as great attributes and it didn’t dissuade him.
I’m excited to read the other friend’s stories!
August 24, 2020
Megan you have done it again.
Her Unexpected Courtship was the perfect regency novella. Full of wit, a strong female lead, and handsome supporting suitor. Isabelle wants more out of her life than to be her husbands property, Lucas just wants Isabelle. The two characters honestly are so meant for each other right from the start it was so fun to see them start to unravel their misconceptions and learn that love was right in front of them all along.
This for some reason had me thinking of "Far From the Madding Crowd"... A strong female...tries to convince this obviously extremely handsome and perfectly loyal gentleman that she isn't right for him. Lucas' consistent character and willingness to prove her wrong made this all the more endearing. Seriously friends, this is a book not to be missed...you'll read it in a single sitting because it's honestly such a beautiful, funny and romantic delight.
Her Unexpected Courtship was the perfect regency novella. Full of wit, a strong female lead, and handsome supporting suitor. Isabelle wants more out of her life than to be her husbands property, Lucas just wants Isabelle. The two characters honestly are so meant for each other right from the start it was so fun to see them start to unravel their misconceptions and learn that love was right in front of them all along.
This for some reason had me thinking of "Far From the Madding Crowd"... A strong female...tries to convince this obviously extremely handsome and perfectly loyal gentleman that she isn't right for him. Lucas' consistent character and willingness to prove her wrong made this all the more endearing. Seriously friends, this is a book not to be missed...you'll read it in a single sitting because it's honestly such a beautiful, funny and romantic delight.
January 23, 2022
"Her Unexpected Courtship" was an unexpected story.
Lucas has loved and admired Isabelle for a long time. Unfortunately, his regard is one-sided. After declaring himself and feeling like a fool for the way it was received, the make a plan. She will show him how unsuitable she is for him. He will strive to be a man that she can admire and love. This leaves open the door to endless possibilities. What could go wrong? The question would be better asked with "what could go right."
This story has much to recommend it. It's well written with a lot of fun.
Lucas has loved and admired Isabelle for a long time. Unfortunately, his regard is one-sided. After declaring himself and feeling like a fool for the way it was received, the make a plan. She will show him how unsuitable she is for him. He will strive to be a man that she can admire and love. This leaves open the door to endless possibilities. What could go wrong? The question would be better asked with "what could go right."
This story has much to recommend it. It's well written with a lot of fun.
April 16, 2026
"Lucas simply could not imagine his future without Isabel."
Another adorable novella from Megan. I enjoyed this one a lot. I loved the yearning and unrequited love. I loved that Lucas was willing to do anything for Isabel. I loved her loyalty to her horse. I was so mad at her brother though.
Definitely recommend this sweet short novella!
Content Guide:
Kissing only, gambling and debts (mentioned, not on page), social drinking of alcohol
Another adorable novella from Megan. I enjoyed this one a lot. I loved the yearning and unrequited love. I loved that Lucas was willing to do anything for Isabel. I loved her loyalty to her horse. I was so mad at her brother though.
Definitely recommend this sweet short novella!
Content Guide:
Kissing only, gambling and debts (mentioned, not on page), social drinking of alcohol
September 20, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed Her Unexpected Courtship and inhaled it in a single sitting during a flight to San Diego where I spent my thirtieth birthday. Not only is the trope of a man falling in love with his best friend’s sister a fun one, but it was made even more enjoyable when the sister-in-question is determined to show her unwanted suitor how ill-suited the two of them are, only to realize during her scheme just how perfectly they fit together.
Isabel was a fun character and Lucas was so endearing and incredibly sweet. I fell in love with him myself quite quickly and was urging Isabel to see how fortunate she was to have such a man so in love with her. I loved watching Lucas desperately try and win Isabel’s heart as well as her attempts to unravel her misconceptions about Lucas, only to realize that he was her true love the entire time.
Their romance was super cute and the story was thoroughly engaging; I wish it could have played out as a full-length novel, but for what it is I thoroughly enjoyed it.
On a more personal note, something about this story resonated with me on a deeper level, giving me more hope in my own story that I can still find love and experience my own happily ever after. For that I’m very grateful.
Isabel was a fun character and Lucas was so endearing and incredibly sweet. I fell in love with him myself quite quickly and was urging Isabel to see how fortunate she was to have such a man so in love with her. I loved watching Lucas desperately try and win Isabel’s heart as well as her attempts to unravel her misconceptions about Lucas, only to realize that he was her true love the entire time.
Their romance was super cute and the story was thoroughly engaging; I wish it could have played out as a full-length novel, but for what it is I thoroughly enjoyed it.
On a more personal note, something about this story resonated with me on a deeper level, giving me more hope in my own story that I can still find love and experience my own happily ever after. For that I’m very grateful.
August 28, 2020
This is a really fun Regency romance! The banter between Lucas and Isabel is great, and I definitely pulled for their happiness. But I also felt slightly unsatisfied, and I think the problem is the length, which didn't allow for enough development of their relationship. I wish we could've seen more of their interactions before Lucas came to stay at the beginning of the novel, as I think that would've helped build the believability of the romance.
Don't get me wrong: this is a good novella. It's super engaging, and I couldn't put it down (I read it all in one night). The problem here is that I loved Lakeshire Park sooooooooo much, and I think my expectations for this novella were just slightly too high. Still, I eagerly await Walker's next novel, and I think I'll go back and read the first two books in this series (written by other authors) while I wait.
Don't get me wrong: this is a good novella. It's super engaging, and I couldn't put it down (I read it all in one night). The problem here is that I loved Lakeshire Park sooooooooo much, and I think my expectations for this novella were just slightly too high. Still, I eagerly await Walker's next novel, and I think I'll go back and read the first two books in this series (written by other authors) while I wait.
August 22, 2020
Another fun and sweet romance by the talented Megan Walker, Her Unexpected Courtship was a really enjoyable read! One thing I am coming to expect when I read a book by Megan Walker is to fall in love with her charming characters and this book did not disappoint. Isabel and Lucas were both so adorable. I loved that Isabel was a thinker and not afraid to be herself or share her thoughts and opinions. Even more though, I love that Lucas loved that about Isabel and as Isabel tried to show him how incompatible they are she was able to see the truth that Lucas knew her better than she could have ever expected. Megan Walker has a way of writing connections with her characters that feel so real and draw you in as a reader. I definitely enjoyed this sweet Regency novella and highly recommend this.
While this is book three in the Promise of Forever After series, it can be read as a standalone. I have loved each book in the series and do recommend reading them all because they are each so well done!
I received an advance reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While this is book three in the Promise of Forever After series, it can be read as a standalone. I have loved each book in the series and do recommend reading them all because they are each so well done!
I received an advance reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 7, 2020
I’m loving these Forever After novellas! They each start with the same scene, from the different characters perspectives. And they go from there. One thing they have in common is the red bracelet that’s supposed to bring them luck in love. And you can read them in any order.
Isabel needs that luck when her brother unexpectedly tries to get rid of her horse. I had a hard time understanding what he was playing at through much of the book. But, it made a bit more sense near the end. I really liked Isabel. She goes out of her way to make sure that Lucas has what he needs. But she doesn’t understand that it’s her that he needs. Until he proposes, most unexpectedly.
I loved Lucas. He was willing to try over and over again to win Isabel. Even though it seemed that there was no chance for him. He helped her brother many times when he did something stupid. In fact, the only reason he was still friends with her brother was Isabel. I was impressed that he stayed, even after his proposal. It seemed as though, he’d want to leave. And he did. But Isabel convinced him to stay.
I loved the way this one was short and easily readable. It makes a great afternoon read.And I can’t wait to read more of these!
I was sent an e-copy of Her Unexpected Courtship as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own
Isabel needs that luck when her brother unexpectedly tries to get rid of her horse. I had a hard time understanding what he was playing at through much of the book. But, it made a bit more sense near the end. I really liked Isabel. She goes out of her way to make sure that Lucas has what he needs. But she doesn’t understand that it’s her that he needs. Until he proposes, most unexpectedly.
I loved Lucas. He was willing to try over and over again to win Isabel. Even though it seemed that there was no chance for him. He helped her brother many times when he did something stupid. In fact, the only reason he was still friends with her brother was Isabel. I was impressed that he stayed, even after his proposal. It seemed as though, he’d want to leave. And he did. But Isabel convinced him to stay.
I loved the way this one was short and easily readable. It makes a great afternoon read.And I can’t wait to read more of these!
I was sent an e-copy of Her Unexpected Courtship as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own
July 25, 2026
Short, mediocre romance featuring a FMC who declines a marriage proposal only to realize how great the guy is and change her mind.
Chemistry was low.
Content-
Language- none
Spice- clean
Triggers/Violence- none
Substance abuse- none
Spiritual/religious- none
Cover- meh
POV- 3rd person, dual POV
Cliffhanger- no
Format- Hoopla
Narration- Good.
Chemistry was low.
Content-
Language- none
Spice- clean
Triggers/Violence- none
Substance abuse- none
Spiritual/religious- none
Cover- meh
POV- 3rd person, dual POV
Cliffhanger- no
Format- Hoopla
Narration- Good.
August 24, 2020
What a wonderful addition to the Promise of Forever After series! I adore Lucas and Isabel, and once I started their story, I couldn’t put it down. In Her Unexpected Courtship, Megan Walker gives readers a fun and beautifully romantic story that will make them giggle and smile. 5/5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 30, 2021
Loved it! Lucas is completely in love with Isabel, and she has no idea. That has the makings of a pretty awkward proposal. Poor Lucas! It was fun to watch Isabel try to prove to Lucas that he didn't love her by being her honest, progressive, bluestocking self, only to be shocked that he wasn't shocked. Because yes, he did know her and that's why he loved her. So sweet!!
August 25, 2020
Her Unexpected Courtship by Megan Walker was a fun escape read. It's the third book in the Promise of Forever After Series. Four characters share a "traveling" bracelet to help bolster their friendships and serve as a good luck charm as they navigate society and their own hearts. The characters were interesting and engaging. The story moved along quickly and the pacing seemed just right. The story and characters felt fresh and engaging. I was a little taken back by how cold Isabel's brother could be to his sister. Isabel learns more about herself and those around her. There was an interesting theme dealing with perceptions and dealing with grief. It was an interesting read that I would recommend trying.
Please note that I received a free e-book to review, however, this is my honest opinion.
Please note that I received a free e-book to review, however, this is my honest opinion.
August 25, 2020
This is just too cute. Isabel is portrayed exactly as I expected based on her cameo appearances in the first two novellas in this "Sisterhood of the Traveling Bracelet" (I probably won't stop calling it that).
Isabel is outspoken and goes above and beyond for those she loves. I adore an independent bluestocking. She writes off relationship possibilities so easily. And Lucas... He is probably one of the best leading men I've read about in a little bit. I love when the man pines for the woman with a serious case of unrequited love, as it seems to be opposite, typically.
These novellas can be read as standalones, but I've enjoyed reading them in order. The lead in to Marah's story has me intrigued!
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Isabel is outspoken and goes above and beyond for those she loves. I adore an independent bluestocking. She writes off relationship possibilities so easily. And Lucas... He is probably one of the best leading men I've read about in a little bit. I love when the man pines for the woman with a serious case of unrequited love, as it seems to be opposite, typically.
These novellas can be read as standalones, but I've enjoyed reading them in order. The lead in to Marah's story has me intrigued!
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.
September 7, 2020
This was such a fun read. When Lucas proposes to Isabel she has no idea about his feelings and rejects him. She then goes about trying to convince him that they are not a good match. However the more time time Isabel spends with Lucas she wonders if her first impression was wrong. The book was a fun and engaging read. The characters were likable too.
January 7, 2022
very solid !!!!!! wish it was a full length book, not a novella, and isabel was a bit too. preachy. but overall VERY good.
June 1, 2024
Another satisfying regency romance
I love how the author writes! Fun, interesting, and spirited characters. I love her female characters who are forward thinking. No steamy scenes, just pure clean romance!
I love how the author writes! Fun, interesting, and spirited characters. I love her female characters who are forward thinking. No steamy scenes, just pure clean romance!
February 25, 2025
Isabel and Lucas
If Isabel hadn't fallen head over heals from Fred, I would have done it for her. Such a good guy!
If Isabel hadn't fallen head over heals from Fred, I would have done it for her. Such a good guy!
March 2, 2025
3.5 Stars 🌟
Slightly kissy there at the end, but overall cute. The brother was a bit of a rake, which brought the rating down
Slightly kissy there at the end, but overall cute. The brother was a bit of a rake, which brought the rating down
September 2, 2020
Lovely
I really liked this book! I loved Lucas! What a perfect gentleman and a swoon worthy character. I think this was my favorite so far of the series, but I recommend reading them all!
Clean romance
I really liked this book! I loved Lucas! What a perfect gentleman and a swoon worthy character. I think this was my favorite so far of the series, but I recommend reading them all!
Clean romance
August 29, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I found it so original and engaging. I loved how the the two main characters don’t necessarily get along perfectly with each other right from the very start. I really don’t want to give away any spoilers and so I can’t delve into this side of things too much. But suffice to say I thought the character development and interactions was very well done.
I’ve been really enjoying this entire series so far and this story, as I said, has been a thoroughly enjoyable, clean and wholesome read that I would be happy to recommend along with the rest of the series.
I received an ARC of this book from the author however this in no way influenced my opinion and I am under no obligation to leave this review.
I’ve been really enjoying this entire series so far and this story, as I said, has been a thoroughly enjoyable, clean and wholesome read that I would be happy to recommend along with the rest of the series.
I received an ARC of this book from the author however this in no way influenced my opinion and I am under no obligation to leave this review.
August 25, 2020
This is the third book in this series. I have really enjoyed reading each of the friends’ stories. I liked how in this one we get to read Isabel’s story. I love that she is opinionated and how she doesn’t think there is any guy who can measure up to her ideal. I love how Lucas shows her that he understands and respects her. I really love how their romance blooms and how they end up together. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
June 28, 2023
Each story in this series is equally sweet and fun. I really liked Isabel. And Lucas... He is adorable. I loved how he showed how perfect they were together while she attempted to convince him of why they aren't compatible. A very sweet story. I look forward to reading other books by Megan Walker. Lakeshire Park, I will see you soon! :D
June 17, 2024
God I'm so jealous of Isabel.
"There was, in fact, one thing he did not like about her: her absence."
"I am entirely, helplessly, yours."
Look how he talks, who wouldn't fall head over heels for him ?
I could cry from how sweet Lucas was, Megan Walker did us a favour by writing him, and I'll forever be grateful. I would love a movie adaptation of it, it just has the vibes of a feel good one.
"There was, in fact, one thing he did not like about her: her absence."
"I am entirely, helplessly, yours."
Look how he talks, who wouldn't fall head over heels for him ?
I could cry from how sweet Lucas was, Megan Walker did us a favour by writing him, and I'll forever be grateful. I would love a movie adaptation of it, it just has the vibes of a feel good one.
February 9, 2023
This was a cute novella. Isabel had made a pact with her friends from school that she will only marry for love. But at the moment she is only in love with her horse, and for very good reasons. Her horse, Aurora, is her living, breathing momento from her childhood, and her adventures with her late father. But her brother Fred is still grieving, angry, and jealous of the close relationship Isabel had with their father. For completely selfish reasons, Fred wants to trade Aurora to retire elsewhere so he can gain funds for a racehorse. But when Isabel pleads her case to keep Aurora, Fred challenges her to a deal.
Enter Lucas Lincroft, a friend of Fred who is need of a change of scenery and is coming to visit for ten days. Isabel and Fred strike a deal where Isabel has to plan and see to Lucas' every comfort while visiting. If he is happy and content with his visit, Isabel may keep Aurora. If Lucas isn't happy with the visit, Aurora is to be traded. But shortly after his arrival, Lucas bares his soul to Isabel and tells her he has been in love with her for the last year, leaving her completely shocked and speechless. She's never once thought of any of Fred's friends as a possible love-interest. Disappointed that Isabel doesn't feel the same about him, Lucas is prepared to leave, but remembering her deal with Fred, Isabel urges Lucas to stay so she can show him how unsuitable they would be. As Isabel sets her plan in motion she comes to realize that Lucas might know her better than she thought. At the same time, Lucas becomes more and more enchanted with Isabel, loving her idiosyncrasies, and finding that she knows him better than he thought as well.
Just when Isabel realizes her feelings for Lucas have grown to love, Fred breaks the deal to trade Aurora in cruel retaliation. When she and Lucas try to stop him, all comes out about the deal and Lucas now believes everything growing between he and Isabel was all a ruse just so she could keep her horse. Little does Lucas realize what Isabel is willing to sacrifice for the man she has come to love.
I really liked this story, although what bothered me most was that Fred didn't get the comeuppance he deserved. He had gambling issues that Lucas was covering. He was cavorting around when he should have been serious about the estate left by his father. He was horrible to Isabel, yet she made clear that she still loved him as a sibling. I wouldn't call Isabel a doormat at all, but Fred needed to rein in his grief and anger, and quit turning it against Isabel whenever he felt like it. Even Lucas could see how badly he treated her. I liked that Lucas was quick to forgive. Had this been a full length book you could see how the drama would have been drawn out and Lucas would have walked away bitter and broken, waiting for Isabel to come groveling. That didn't happen and I appreciated that. Isabel easily proved her feelings when she gave up her precious Aurora for him. If that isn't love, then I don't know what is.
Overall, a very enjoyable read. I will be checking out the other titles in the series. I love anything by Megan Walker and Sally Britton so I would like to explore the other authors who contributed to the series.
4 stars from me. Sweet kisses only.
Enter Lucas Lincroft, a friend of Fred who is need of a change of scenery and is coming to visit for ten days. Isabel and Fred strike a deal where Isabel has to plan and see to Lucas' every comfort while visiting. If he is happy and content with his visit, Isabel may keep Aurora. If Lucas isn't happy with the visit, Aurora is to be traded. But shortly after his arrival, Lucas bares his soul to Isabel and tells her he has been in love with her for the last year, leaving her completely shocked and speechless. She's never once thought of any of Fred's friends as a possible love-interest. Disappointed that Isabel doesn't feel the same about him, Lucas is prepared to leave, but remembering her deal with Fred, Isabel urges Lucas to stay so she can show him how unsuitable they would be. As Isabel sets her plan in motion she comes to realize that Lucas might know her better than she thought. At the same time, Lucas becomes more and more enchanted with Isabel, loving her idiosyncrasies, and finding that she knows him better than he thought as well.
Just when Isabel realizes her feelings for Lucas have grown to love, Fred breaks the deal to trade Aurora in cruel retaliation. When she and Lucas try to stop him, all comes out about the deal and Lucas now believes everything growing between he and Isabel was all a ruse just so she could keep her horse. Little does Lucas realize what Isabel is willing to sacrifice for the man she has come to love.
I really liked this story, although what bothered me most was that Fred didn't get the comeuppance he deserved. He had gambling issues that Lucas was covering. He was cavorting around when he should have been serious about the estate left by his father. He was horrible to Isabel, yet she made clear that she still loved him as a sibling. I wouldn't call Isabel a doormat at all, but Fred needed to rein in his grief and anger, and quit turning it against Isabel whenever he felt like it. Even Lucas could see how badly he treated her. I liked that Lucas was quick to forgive. Had this been a full length book you could see how the drama would have been drawn out and Lucas would have walked away bitter and broken, waiting for Isabel to come groveling. That didn't happen and I appreciated that. Isabel easily proved her feelings when she gave up her precious Aurora for him. If that isn't love, then I don't know what is.
Overall, a very enjoyable read. I will be checking out the other titles in the series. I love anything by Megan Walker and Sally Britton so I would like to explore the other authors who contributed to the series.
4 stars from me. Sweet kisses only.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2020
(4.5 stars) - My unexpected review 😉
This is one of those stories that if I was rating it technically, I would have given it 4 stars, but the author writes her characters' interactions so well, & I liked it so much despite it's flaws that I didn't want to rate it lower.
And I have to be up front, much as I appreciate the suffering of suffragettes on behalf of women, women's equality is generally not a topic I want in my escapist fare; so I was a little hesitant to take on Isabel's story. The premise persuaded me to try it, however, and happily I have no regrets.
Isabel is a young woman whose heart has yet to be touched by love. Except for her family & her horse - though her younger brother, now master of the family's estate, is testing that.
Her younger brother's friend, Lucas, has been in love with Isabel for so long that he's certain she must know by now. And so, in a moment reminiscent of Mr Darcy's first proposal to Lizzie, Lucas asks an unsuspecting Isabel to marry him.
The result is a little funny & a whole lot awkward. That which follows is wonderfully sweet as Isabel does her best to show Lucas how awful she is, & Lucas shows her how well he knows her - and how little she knows him!
At just 13 chapters, the story is a novella, so not surprisingly, its chief weakness is more in its brevity than its content. Visits by close friends in Regency times were typically 2 weeks or more, but all this occurs over a mere week. Needless to say, then, it's a very busy week & the story certainly never lags.
Lucas is a total sweetheart & I wasn't completely convinced of his reasons for loving willful Isabel, but I was willing to take his word for it & pretty much anything else after he mucked out her horse's stall, lol.
I loved the resolution & ending, even though they're a trifle pat, but after 3 days of reading disappointing arcs, it was so gratifying to discover a little gem, that I was all the more happy with my unexpected find!
*Clean romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
This is one of those stories that if I was rating it technically, I would have given it 4 stars, but the author writes her characters' interactions so well, & I liked it so much despite it's flaws that I didn't want to rate it lower.
And I have to be up front, much as I appreciate the suffering of suffragettes on behalf of women, women's equality is generally not a topic I want in my escapist fare; so I was a little hesitant to take on Isabel's story. The premise persuaded me to try it, however, and happily I have no regrets.
Isabel is a young woman whose heart has yet to be touched by love. Except for her family & her horse - though her younger brother, now master of the family's estate, is testing that.
Her younger brother's friend, Lucas, has been in love with Isabel for so long that he's certain she must know by now. And so, in a moment reminiscent of Mr Darcy's first proposal to Lizzie, Lucas asks an unsuspecting Isabel to marry him.
The result is a little funny & a whole lot awkward. That which follows is wonderfully sweet as Isabel does her best to show Lucas how awful she is, & Lucas shows her how well he knows her - and how little she knows him!
At just 13 chapters, the story is a novella, so not surprisingly, its chief weakness is more in its brevity than its content. Visits by close friends in Regency times were typically 2 weeks or more, but all this occurs over a mere week. Needless to say, then, it's a very busy week & the story certainly never lags.
Lucas is a total sweetheart & I wasn't completely convinced of his reasons for loving willful Isabel, but I was willing to take his word for it & pretty much anything else after he mucked out her horse's stall, lol.
I loved the resolution & ending, even though they're a trifle pat, but after 3 days of reading disappointing arcs, it was so gratifying to discover a little gem, that I was all the more happy with my unexpected find!
*Clean romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
August 24, 2020
𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩
(𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝟑)
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐀𝐮𝐠 𝟐𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐮𝐭!
𝐅𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬, 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞. 𝐌𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞. 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐨 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝!
𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞. 𝐌𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧'𝐬 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐩, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥!
𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬!
𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲...
✔𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤
✔𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
✔𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
✔𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬
✔𝐖𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬!
♡𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐞𝐫 ♡
𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 (𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞)
𝐀 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞: 𝐀 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐲 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 (𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝟒)
Thank You to the author for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Book Synopsis:
"Isabel Reed has promised to marry for love. At present her heart belongs to the one companion she knows accepts all her eccentricities—her horse. So when her older brother threatens to trade the animal on a whim, Isabel must force aside her progressive beliefs and bargain to entertain her brother's flirtatious, albeit handsome, friend Lucas Ashcroft in exchange for keeping her horse.
Lucas is on the brink of madness—after a year’s worth of visits, he loves Isabel and is ready to propose. When it seems like she has finally come to feel the same, he foolishly believes he's won her heart.
After a botched proposal from Lucas, Isabel makes it her mission to prove his affections for her are misplaced. But Lucas is determined not to give up his pursuit, and as Isabel comes to know him and his heart, she must work to save herself from losing not only her horse, but the most equal love match she never thought possible."
(𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝟑)
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐀𝐮𝐠 𝟐𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐮𝐭!
𝐅𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬, 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞. 𝐌𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞. 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐨 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝!
𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞. 𝐌𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧'𝐬 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐩, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥!
𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬!
𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲...
✔𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤
✔𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
✔𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
✔𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬
✔𝐖𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬!
♡𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐞𝐫 ♡
𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 (𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞)
𝐀 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞: 𝐀 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐲 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 (𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝟒)
Thank You to the author for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Book Synopsis:
"Isabel Reed has promised to marry for love. At present her heart belongs to the one companion she knows accepts all her eccentricities—her horse. So when her older brother threatens to trade the animal on a whim, Isabel must force aside her progressive beliefs and bargain to entertain her brother's flirtatious, albeit handsome, friend Lucas Ashcroft in exchange for keeping her horse.
Lucas is on the brink of madness—after a year’s worth of visits, he loves Isabel and is ready to propose. When it seems like she has finally come to feel the same, he foolishly believes he's won her heart.
After a botched proposal from Lucas, Isabel makes it her mission to prove his affections for her are misplaced. But Lucas is determined not to give up his pursuit, and as Isabel comes to know him and his heart, she must work to save herself from losing not only her horse, but the most equal love match she never thought possible."
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