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His Awful Grace
In 1887 London, the elite of Mayfair prosper while the poor of St. Giles die. Despite being an aristocratic wife, Ellen Grenfall fights in the bowels of London to save the lives of premature infants and their mothers with her fledgling medical dispensary--a cause close to her heart after her own infant loss.
Eight years earlier, Mark Grenfall joined the Royal Navy to escape his struggling marriage. But when he’s suddenly called by his family to provide an heir, he’s forced to return to London and the woman he abandoned—discovering that she is nothing like the giggling debutante he left behind. The real Ellen is a passionate, wildly intelligent woman pursuing neonatology, and he’s just the man who underestimated her.
Ellen has no use for a husband who abandoned her, especially not with a medical practice to keep her busy, but Mark's attention and support of her medical research sparks a new connection. Yet unresolved grief and a duty to produce an heir that neither feels capable of meeting endangers their fragile reunion.
Ellen must decide if she's willing to open her heart to her husband—and the possibility of new life—and try again.
Eight years earlier, Mark Grenfall joined the Royal Navy to escape his struggling marriage. But when he’s suddenly called by his family to provide an heir, he’s forced to return to London and the woman he abandoned—discovering that she is nothing like the giggling debutante he left behind. The real Ellen is a passionate, wildly intelligent woman pursuing neonatology, and he’s just the man who underestimated her.
Ellen has no use for a husband who abandoned her, especially not with a medical practice to keep her busy, but Mark's attention and support of her medical research sparks a new connection. Yet unresolved grief and a duty to produce an heir that neither feels capable of meeting endangers their fragile reunion.
Ellen must decide if she's willing to open her heart to her husband—and the possibility of new life—and try again.
338 pages, ebook
Published July 28, 2026
About the author
Anne Knight
13 books57 followersAnne Knight has been writing stories since she was three years old. Before she could read or write, she followed her parents and babysitter around, begging them to dictate her words. Eventually she learned the alphabet and began writing herself. She sneaked her first romance novel when she was thirteen, but did not become an avid reader or writer of the genre until after college.
Anne has lived in two countries, studied in three, and traveled through a total of thirty four. Her work history includes ESL teacher, domestic violence advocate, paralegal, and hospital project manager. She lives in Arkansas with her real-life swoony hero, four children, and two cats. The cats are named Cyrano and Ivanhoe.
Anne has lived in two countries, studied in three, and traveled through a total of thirty four. Her work history includes ESL teacher, domestic violence advocate, paralegal, and hospital project manager. She lives in Arkansas with her real-life swoony hero, four children, and two cats. The cats are named Cyrano and Ivanhoe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 5, 2026
Read: 8/3/26
Setting: 1887 England
Trope: second chances, forced proximity
4 stars for plot, 1/2 star for surprising me
This was my first book by this author, but it won't be my last!
Plot: Mark has returned to England after 8 years in the Navy. He has come to reconcile with the silly wife he left all those years ago. His brother has injured himself and can no longer have children, the line now depends on Mark, a chore he doesn't relish. So, imagine his surprise, when he discovers a strong, mature woman instead of the giggling debutante he left behind. It doesn't take Mark long to realize what a severe mistake he made. How can he get this incredible woman to trust him again and how will she feel when she learns about his mission for an heir.
Ellen's marriage ended as quickly as it began. After 3 months, her new husband informed her that he had joined the Navy (3 hours before he left), and wouldn't be returning for 6 years. Worse, she had been pregnant and later had a stillborn. That tragedy sparked a passion for neonatal care. Now, with the help of a woman doctor, she treats the poor mothers who can't afford proper care for their infants. She's created a whole new life and doesn't need the man who destroyed her back in it! Unfortunately, her parents become difficult and she has no choice but to move back in with Mark. He has only three conditions. The biggest one is that Ellen must have breakfast with him every morning. Much to Ellen's dismay, Mark's attention and genuine interest in her work, start to wear down her defenses. She must remember what he did! Could he have really changed or will he leave her again someday?
Mark is amazed by this incredible woman he left behind. How could he have ever thought her silly or stupid? He wants her, but knows he must take things slowly. Unfortunately, his plans go awry when Ellen informs him that she refuses to ever bear a child again. Can Mark give up his family duty? Will Ellen ever come to trust him again?
Like:
1. Ellen was an amazing character! I was very impressed how she took a great tragedy in her life and turned it into something that helped other mothers like herself. Ellen is just brilliant! What's more, she's interesting and relatable.
2. Mark was an idiot for leaving, but he was very young at the time. I like that he realized his mistake right away and course corrects. He wasn't a playboy, but stayed faithful. I loved that Mark was genuinely interested in Ellen 's work. He also never pressured Ellen for anything she wasn't prepared to give. I fell hard for this Greek scholar!
3. The romance was organic and felt earned. She didn't forgive Mark right away and he didn't force the issue with sex. So we got to watch this couple fall in love as mature adults. - I hate when the H is forgiven too soon. Too many authors use sex to breach the gap instead of letting their relationship grow naturally. This author wrote the romance beautifully!.
4. Mark went beyond for Ellen. I almost cried when he gifted her a locket to carry their late daughter's lock of hair. Mark also purchased contraceptives because Ellen didn't want to risk a pregnancy. He was willing to fail his family line because he couldn't put Ellen through a pregnancy she didn't want. Wow!
5. This book was very well written. I was so impressed with all the historical details, including all the medical research on prenatal and neonatal care in Victorian times. The author captured the history and mood of the era perfectly, down to the simplest detail. Hell, the author even knew the correct gender colors, pink for boys and blue for girls. Few modern authors can capture that sort of realism this author created.
Very minor dislikes:
1. Mark could be a little too understanding at times.
2. The romance sometimes took a backburner to Ellen's work.
3. Mark's wanting to teach Greek philosophy near the end of the book, felt like an unnecessary conflict.
Conclusion: this book was a true delight and I look foward to trying more of this author's books. Highly recommend!
Setting: 1887 England
Trope: second chances, forced proximity
4 stars for plot, 1/2 star for surprising me
This was my first book by this author, but it won't be my last!
Plot: Mark has returned to England after 8 years in the Navy. He has come to reconcile with the silly wife he left all those years ago. His brother has injured himself and can no longer have children, the line now depends on Mark, a chore he doesn't relish. So, imagine his surprise, when he discovers a strong, mature woman instead of the giggling debutante he left behind. It doesn't take Mark long to realize what a severe mistake he made. How can he get this incredible woman to trust him again and how will she feel when she learns about his mission for an heir.
Ellen's marriage ended as quickly as it began. After 3 months, her new husband informed her that he had joined the Navy (3 hours before he left), and wouldn't be returning for 6 years. Worse, she had been pregnant and later had a stillborn. That tragedy sparked a passion for neonatal care. Now, with the help of a woman doctor, she treats the poor mothers who can't afford proper care for their infants. She's created a whole new life and doesn't need the man who destroyed her back in it! Unfortunately, her parents become difficult and she has no choice but to move back in with Mark. He has only three conditions. The biggest one is that Ellen must have breakfast with him every morning. Much to Ellen's dismay, Mark's attention and genuine interest in her work, start to wear down her defenses. She must remember what he did! Could he have really changed or will he leave her again someday?
Mark is amazed by this incredible woman he left behind. How could he have ever thought her silly or stupid? He wants her, but knows he must take things slowly. Unfortunately, his plans go awry when Ellen informs him that she refuses to ever bear a child again. Can Mark give up his family duty? Will Ellen ever come to trust him again?
Like:
1. Ellen was an amazing character! I was very impressed how she took a great tragedy in her life and turned it into something that helped other mothers like herself. Ellen is just brilliant! What's more, she's interesting and relatable.
2. Mark was an idiot for leaving, but he was very young at the time. I like that he realized his mistake right away and course corrects. He wasn't a playboy, but stayed faithful. I loved that Mark was genuinely interested in Ellen 's work. He also never pressured Ellen for anything she wasn't prepared to give. I fell hard for this Greek scholar!
3. The romance was organic and felt earned. She didn't forgive Mark right away and he didn't force the issue with sex. So we got to watch this couple fall in love as mature adults. - I hate when the H is forgiven too soon. Too many authors use sex to breach the gap instead of letting their relationship grow naturally. This author wrote the romance beautifully!.
4. Mark went beyond for Ellen. I almost cried when he gifted her a locket to carry their late daughter's lock of hair. Mark also purchased contraceptives because Ellen didn't want to risk a pregnancy. He was willing to fail his family line because he couldn't put Ellen through a pregnancy she didn't want. Wow!
5. This book was very well written. I was so impressed with all the historical details, including all the medical research on prenatal and neonatal care in Victorian times. The author captured the history and mood of the era perfectly, down to the simplest detail. Hell, the author even knew the correct gender colors, pink for boys and blue for girls. Few modern authors can capture that sort of realism this author created.
Very minor dislikes:
1. Mark could be a little too understanding at times.
2. The romance sometimes took a backburner to Ellen's work.
3. Mark's wanting to teach Greek philosophy near the end of the book, felt like an unnecessary conflict.
Conclusion: this book was a true delight and I look foward to trying more of this author's books. Highly recommend!
July 16, 2026
This book was so easy to fall into, and I was so absorbed in this world. I encourage you to read the CWs and go into this one gently if you have tenderness around infant loss and premature babies. Anne does such a careful job telling this story, and its layers of hope and optimism really got me through the hard bits. Both of these characters experience such tremendous growth, and I think that’s why this second chance works so well. But there were moments of such grief and loss that I had to put this book down for a bit. The emotions are so raw and real here, and it’s a story I think will resonate with so many. But go in gently my friends, and take care of yourselves with this read.
Mark is a pretty unlikeable character at first, but for some reason the way that Anne writes him, I’m still incredibly engaged. He’s pompous and arrogant, and his past thoughts regarding Ellen were beyond insufferable. But he’s also growing, and I love a man who slowly realizes his wrongs and that he’s basically married to a Baddy. Ellen might have been young and flighty eight years ago, but after her husband abandoned her and she lost her baby, she’s been forever changed. Pair that with her years of working with premature infants and women during pregnancy, and she’s nothing like the woman Mark left behind years ago. While he’s back initially with the strict purpose of producing heirs (needing estranged wife for that), he soon becomes intrigued by this new person his wife has grown into. Not to mention the chemistry and sexual tension that’s always been there.
You can tell this one is really well researched, and I appreciate when I feel like I’m learning something in my historicals without it overpowering the plot. This might be Anne’s first full-length novella, but you can tell she’s spent years honing her craft and storytelling. The characters are complex and layered, and this one really felt like a poignant reflection on grief, healing, and ultimately love.
5/5
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
Marriage in trouble, second chance, ex-Navy officer, premature infant care, grief & healing, blonde hero, scholarly MMC
Mark is a pretty unlikeable character at first, but for some reason the way that Anne writes him, I’m still incredibly engaged. He’s pompous and arrogant, and his past thoughts regarding Ellen were beyond insufferable. But he’s also growing, and I love a man who slowly realizes his wrongs and that he’s basically married to a Baddy. Ellen might have been young and flighty eight years ago, but after her husband abandoned her and she lost her baby, she’s been forever changed. Pair that with her years of working with premature infants and women during pregnancy, and she’s nothing like the woman Mark left behind years ago. While he’s back initially with the strict purpose of producing heirs (needing estranged wife for that), he soon becomes intrigued by this new person his wife has grown into. Not to mention the chemistry and sexual tension that’s always been there.
You can tell this one is really well researched, and I appreciate when I feel like I’m learning something in my historicals without it overpowering the plot. This might be Anne’s first full-length novella, but you can tell she’s spent years honing her craft and storytelling. The characters are complex and layered, and this one really felt like a poignant reflection on grief, healing, and ultimately love.
5/5
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
Marriage in trouble, second chance, ex-Navy officer, premature infant care, grief & healing, blonde hero, scholarly MMC
September 10, 2026
Meh... I found the guy's complete 180 from douchey snob at 20 years old and reappearing 8 years later as a kind, understanding, and supportive husband that perfectly groveled, a bit unbelievable TBH. I was taken aback to find out that not only had he been back to England several times over the 8 years, but he'd even been in London and not once checked in with his wife. He had no clue she didn't even live where he thought she'd been living the whole time. To have THAT man then show up and be Mr. Perfect to her all of a sudden, I struggled with trying to understand him.
August 17, 2026
Oh Ellen I just want to bundle you up and keep you safe!
This is Anne Knights first full length novel and having read and loved so many of her novellas I was super excited to read this one! You can tell that this was an emotional and deep story for her to write and I could feel how personal and close to home it was for her because she took great care with the details. While the subject of pregnancy, still birth and miscarriage is very prevalent in this book I think Anne did a great job at shining a light on what it was really like to be pregnant back then and the hurdles women faced especially in poverty stricken areas of London. This is not an easy read but it’s an important one.
The romance. I have to hand it to Anne she’s doing what a lot of authors don’t want to do right now and that’s writing an extremely unlikeable mmc. I love to read growth and development I don’t need the mmc’s to be perfect off the bat and that’s how we are introduced to Mark. He’s selfish, arrogant and just a dick tbh 🤷♀️ Mark and Ellen married 8 years before the book began and shortly after Mark found himself falling out of love with his wife and instead of staying and unpacking what lead to it he went off to be in the Navy. Turns out Ellen was pregnant and she spent her entire pregnancy on her own and unfortunately their baby was still born. Their story picks up when Mark comes back and has to take over the title because his brother was in an accident and can no longer have children. The title needs an heir and mark has a wife, so Mark needs to try to convince Ellen to help him but obviously there’s so many barriers in the way.
While I enjoyed aspects of their romance I did think there was a light switch moment for mark and it happened a little too early in the book. I really disliked the fact that it seemed like he only became interested in Ellen when she completely lost her prior self and was in the gutter. He mentions he fell out of love with her because she giggled and he questioned her intellectualism. When he comes back and she’s grown up and became more serious he’s interested in her again. There’s also moments towards the end that are very “well what about me?” He’s very one minded and not used to not being the centre of attention. I think this could have worked for me if we were given more time to sit and see him evolve truly.
The sex. I would say this was mild spice very poetically and beautifully written and I enjoyed them a lot. They made sense and didn’t seem to feel out of character and I appreciate a little contraceptive history moment so I ate a good few of those scenes up!
The writing. Engaging and easy to read I think Anne writes great historical romances with loads of heart and it’s easy to see she put her all into Ellen. While I would say the pacing lagged a little (I would have loved to have seen a few breakfast scenes utilised, especially the first one) it wasn’t annoying or took me out of it too much.
Overall a great read and I love how Anne took a risk here with Mark. I definitely need the sapphic doctor and nurse story next please!!!!
This is Anne Knights first full length novel and having read and loved so many of her novellas I was super excited to read this one! You can tell that this was an emotional and deep story for her to write and I could feel how personal and close to home it was for her because she took great care with the details. While the subject of pregnancy, still birth and miscarriage is very prevalent in this book I think Anne did a great job at shining a light on what it was really like to be pregnant back then and the hurdles women faced especially in poverty stricken areas of London. This is not an easy read but it’s an important one.
The romance. I have to hand it to Anne she’s doing what a lot of authors don’t want to do right now and that’s writing an extremely unlikeable mmc. I love to read growth and development I don’t need the mmc’s to be perfect off the bat and that’s how we are introduced to Mark. He’s selfish, arrogant and just a dick tbh 🤷♀️ Mark and Ellen married 8 years before the book began and shortly after Mark found himself falling out of love with his wife and instead of staying and unpacking what lead to it he went off to be in the Navy. Turns out Ellen was pregnant and she spent her entire pregnancy on her own and unfortunately their baby was still born. Their story picks up when Mark comes back and has to take over the title because his brother was in an accident and can no longer have children. The title needs an heir and mark has a wife, so Mark needs to try to convince Ellen to help him but obviously there’s so many barriers in the way.
While I enjoyed aspects of their romance I did think there was a light switch moment for mark and it happened a little too early in the book. I really disliked the fact that it seemed like he only became interested in Ellen when she completely lost her prior self and was in the gutter. He mentions he fell out of love with her because she giggled and he questioned her intellectualism. When he comes back and she’s grown up and became more serious he’s interested in her again. There’s also moments towards the end that are very “well what about me?” He’s very one minded and not used to not being the centre of attention. I think this could have worked for me if we were given more time to sit and see him evolve truly.
The sex. I would say this was mild spice very poetically and beautifully written and I enjoyed them a lot. They made sense and didn’t seem to feel out of character and I appreciate a little contraceptive history moment so I ate a good few of those scenes up!
The writing. Engaging and easy to read I think Anne writes great historical romances with loads of heart and it’s easy to see she put her all into Ellen. While I would say the pacing lagged a little (I would have loved to have seen a few breakfast scenes utilised, especially the first one) it wasn’t annoying or took me out of it too much.
Overall a great read and I love how Anne took a risk here with Mark. I definitely need the sapphic doctor and nurse story next please!!!!
August 6, 2026
London, 1887.
Ellen Grenfall, society wife, volunteers her time helping premature infants survive their early days in the poorest neighborhoods of London. It's something she's done since she delivered her own stillborn child eight years ago. She audits classes at the nursing school, corresponds with leading physicians in France, and helps her friend Dr Amelia Hart and assists midwife Mrs Dougherty with deliveries. She also hasn't seen her husband since he walked out to join the Royal Navy only a few months into their marriage. Now Mark Grenfall is back, with a responsibility to provide heirs now that his older brother is incapacitated, and he has a long road to reconcile with his wife who not only has no need for a man who deserted her, but who also doesn't want to risk another pregnancy.
His Awful Grace is a complicated and challenging read, addressing issues of pregnancy, complications in pregnancy, childbirth, child loss, poverty, and death. Anne Knight does well to address them all with sensitivity appropriate to the subject matter and weaves a powerful story around them. The complications with pregnancy and childbirth are of personal nature to Knight, which she talks about in her author's note. In a genre filled with babylogues, yet at a time where maternal and infant mortality were high, His Awful Grace provides not only a reality check in history, but a fascinating story around the evolution of prenatal, postnatal, and premature infant care.
I felt that the difficult topics of childbirth, maternal care, and poverty overshadowed the romance. Mark has been away for eight years, and he left because he didn't think Ellen was intelligent enough. He'll need a really solid grovel to get her back, right? They slide back into their physical attraction to one another quickly enough, which I believe, but I'm not sure the balance of grovel/forgiveness worked for me. Ellen and Mark married too young, so the fact that he made a rash decision to leave for the Royal Navy makes some sense. There are moments where their emotional and intellectual connection is strong, but then one of them would do something rash and the other would jump to conclusions in a way that makes me think their resolution wouldn't be permanent. For me, the strength of the novel is Ellen's work and her growth. Mark grows as a character too, but it's about his recognition of loss almost individually rather than his growth with Ellen in their relationship. That said, I do think the romance will work for many readers.
Thank you to Anne Knight for an eARC. His Awful Grace is out 7/28/26 and available on KU!
Ellen Grenfall, society wife, volunteers her time helping premature infants survive their early days in the poorest neighborhoods of London. It's something she's done since she delivered her own stillborn child eight years ago. She audits classes at the nursing school, corresponds with leading physicians in France, and helps her friend Dr Amelia Hart and assists midwife Mrs Dougherty with deliveries. She also hasn't seen her husband since he walked out to join the Royal Navy only a few months into their marriage. Now Mark Grenfall is back, with a responsibility to provide heirs now that his older brother is incapacitated, and he has a long road to reconcile with his wife who not only has no need for a man who deserted her, but who also doesn't want to risk another pregnancy.
His Awful Grace is a complicated and challenging read, addressing issues of pregnancy, complications in pregnancy, childbirth, child loss, poverty, and death. Anne Knight does well to address them all with sensitivity appropriate to the subject matter and weaves a powerful story around them. The complications with pregnancy and childbirth are of personal nature to Knight, which she talks about in her author's note. In a genre filled with babylogues, yet at a time where maternal and infant mortality were high, His Awful Grace provides not only a reality check in history, but a fascinating story around the evolution of prenatal, postnatal, and premature infant care.
I felt that the difficult topics of childbirth, maternal care, and poverty overshadowed the romance. Mark has been away for eight years, and he left because he didn't think Ellen was intelligent enough. He'll need a really solid grovel to get her back, right? They slide back into their physical attraction to one another quickly enough, which I believe, but I'm not sure the balance of grovel/forgiveness worked for me. Ellen and Mark married too young, so the fact that he made a rash decision to leave for the Royal Navy makes some sense. There are moments where their emotional and intellectual connection is strong, but then one of them would do something rash and the other would jump to conclusions in a way that makes me think their resolution wouldn't be permanent. For me, the strength of the novel is Ellen's work and her growth. Mark grows as a character too, but it's about his recognition of loss almost individually rather than his growth with Ellen in their relationship. That said, I do think the romance will work for many readers.
Thank you to Anne Knight for an eARC. His Awful Grace is out 7/28/26 and available on KU!
August 9, 2026
So this didn’t go the way I thought it would. Most of first 30 % goes into heavy premmie birth with medical explanation situations with a few patients. Ellen the fl who is an aristocrat wide lost her own child to stillbirth and was traumatized. She has put rest of her time to learn about the field and to help other pregnant women in similar situations. Her husband mark had already left for the navy. Mark now has to come home after being apart for 8 years to continue the family line as his older brother had an accident. The medical terminology and portions were a bit too much. I just felt it took away from the couples storyline. There was some issues with the flow of the story with the main couple. The title is misleading as Mark isn’t a Duke.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
July 31, 2026
Ehhh the story itself was great but the execution felt lacking to me. Mark wasn’t a duke so idk why the book is called his awful GRACE?
Sorry, Mark was the worssstttt and Ellen was a pushover. They marry young and basically only because he’s so horny for her and then he fucks off to the Navy because once her hotness wears off Mark realizes Ellen is stupid?!? He’s gone for EIGHT YEARS! It’s not like he didn’t come home either, he’d be on leave and visit his family but not his stupid wife. As soon as he leaves Ellen finds out she’s pregnant but tragically loses the baby. When Mark finds out about the loss he sends her flowers and a note. FLOWERS AND A NOTE. The only reason he comes back to her is because his family needs an heir since his brother had an accident and can’t have kids? It’s never said what the accident was, is he paralyzed? Did his dick fall off? Balls? We don’t know, but I assume the next book in the series is him and his nurse. Anywho, while dumbass Mark is doing his ship shit Ellen finds herself and becomes some sort of preemie specialist. She’s not a midwife and she’s not a nurse she’s like a liaison. Whatever, Marks back and he’s like “whoa my wife is kinda smart and important and I’m a loser with no job” Ellen is like I’ll bang you but I’m never having another kid after the traumatic experience the last pregnancy was. Oopsie daisy I didn’t drink my old timey plan b tea and now I’m pregnant. Blah blah blah there’s a revenge side plot with a kidnapping. I wanted Ellen to go to France and meet a hot baby Dr and leave Mark on his dumb ship.
Sorry, Mark was the worssstttt and Ellen was a pushover. They marry young and basically only because he’s so horny for her and then he fucks off to the Navy because once her hotness wears off Mark realizes Ellen is stupid?!? He’s gone for EIGHT YEARS! It’s not like he didn’t come home either, he’d be on leave and visit his family but not his stupid wife. As soon as he leaves Ellen finds out she’s pregnant but tragically loses the baby. When Mark finds out about the loss he sends her flowers and a note. FLOWERS AND A NOTE. The only reason he comes back to her is because his family needs an heir since his brother had an accident and can’t have kids? It’s never said what the accident was, is he paralyzed? Did his dick fall off? Balls? We don’t know, but I assume the next book in the series is him and his nurse. Anywho, while dumbass Mark is doing his ship shit Ellen finds herself and becomes some sort of preemie specialist. She’s not a midwife and she’s not a nurse she’s like a liaison. Whatever, Marks back and he’s like “whoa my wife is kinda smart and important and I’m a loser with no job” Ellen is like I’ll bang you but I’m never having another kid after the traumatic experience the last pregnancy was. Oopsie daisy I didn’t drink my old timey plan b tea and now I’m pregnant. Blah blah blah there’s a revenge side plot with a kidnapping. I wanted Ellen to go to France and meet a hot baby Dr and leave Mark on his dumb ship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2026
This was a well written, powerful, second chance historical romance novel. It was full of strong emotions, difficult topics of childbirth, and loss with gentle insight, rich in detail, and many engaging twists. The characters and their growth were phenomenal. Their journey to forgiveness and love was heartwarming. The ending was very satisfying. I loved the extra epilog. I highly recommend reading!
July 29, 2026
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Marriage in trouble and the start of neonatal care.
This has sensitive subjects that are really well handled, and I loved learning about the beginnings of neonatal care in Victorian London. The relationship element is a little weak, but the book is enjoyable.
Marriage in trouble and the start of neonatal care.
This has sensitive subjects that are really well handled, and I loved learning about the beginnings of neonatal care in Victorian London. The relationship element is a little weak, but the book is enjoyable.
August 1, 2026
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this novel and this is my freely given opinion.
This was a compelling read that I enjoyed on several levels. It was a historical romance with a second chance at love story, with characters that both grew and matured, but still have to rediscover each other and forge a new relationship with their present selves, while working through the trauma of their past relationship as well. Also, there was quite a bit of history researched and relayed in this story that added so much depth and interest to it, specifically women and women's health care during that period, which I found very interesting and quite enjoyed. Also a complex and intrigung story that involves class/social, and sexual/gender barriers as well.
Mark Grenfall was an immature idiot and a rank coward. His marriage to Ellen was a love match, but also one driven by the desire of a younger son in search of a rich bride, and Mark fell for the beautiful and rich 18 year old, and wed before he was 21. Shortly after, he realized that perhaps he was a bit too hasty and had determined that he had fallen 0ut of love with his young wife, who appeared to not even share anything in common with him. Not being able to face a future with what he has determined to be a shallow, stupid woman, he decided he would just up and leave, joining the Royal Navy, and not telling her until literally his bags were packed and at the door. Of course his wife, Ellen, was not going to understand why her husband was abandoning her and not going to take his exit well.
Eight years is a long time, and much has developed during those years, and when family circumstances force Mark to return, and reconcile with his wife, he is forced to face those changes and reconcile with the past, including his own cowardice, immaturity, and lack of judgement. The woman he discovers is not the woman he thought he left behind, and he is fascinated by the vibrant and intelligent woman Ellen has become, but chastened by the fact that he never bothered to learn enough about her in the past to foster her interests. Ellen was a young woman following the expectations foisted upon her as a debutante, not knowing any better. But when she was abandoned and forced to suffer life changing events without her husband, in her recovery she found a passion and purpose in ensuring other women do not suffer as she had, when she suffered the loss of her child. She has spent years learning the most modern methods of prenatal and post natal care, especially for premature births, determined to save as many babies as she can, with the resources she has, especially amongst the poor in St. Giles. This includes her like-minded friends in the clinic she funds and works in, a retired midwife, and a woman doctor who works tirelessly to care for those living in the stews.
When Mark suddenly reappears in her life, she rejects him outright, but when her family threatens to constrain her radical activities working amonst the poor, she is forced to choose a lesser evil and strikes a deal with her husband which will allow her to continue her work.
Mark takes this new opportunity to learn about Ellen and her interests and finds himself falling for her, but also facing truths about the past that he was able to ignore, when he was comfortably distant from them. Ellen distrusts Mark, with good reason, but when he insists on being a part of her life and work, the barriers she builds start to crack, and she starts to trust and care for him again. But when she discovers that their reconciliation may be motivated on his part by his family's need for an heir, the perceived betrayal of her new found trust may be enough to break them apart for good.
Historical romance with lots of emotion as they both face the past, with Mark facing his mistakes and his losses, and Ellen dealing with his abandonment and her traumatic loss. They need to relearn each other and overcome past broken trust as well, while negotiating a new relationship in their new knowledge of each other.
4.5 stars out of 5
This was a compelling read that I enjoyed on several levels. It was a historical romance with a second chance at love story, with characters that both grew and matured, but still have to rediscover each other and forge a new relationship with their present selves, while working through the trauma of their past relationship as well. Also, there was quite a bit of history researched and relayed in this story that added so much depth and interest to it, specifically women and women's health care during that period, which I found very interesting and quite enjoyed. Also a complex and intrigung story that involves class/social, and sexual/gender barriers as well.
Mark Grenfall was an immature idiot and a rank coward. His marriage to Ellen was a love match, but also one driven by the desire of a younger son in search of a rich bride, and Mark fell for the beautiful and rich 18 year old, and wed before he was 21. Shortly after, he realized that perhaps he was a bit too hasty and had determined that he had fallen 0ut of love with his young wife, who appeared to not even share anything in common with him. Not being able to face a future with what he has determined to be a shallow, stupid woman, he decided he would just up and leave, joining the Royal Navy, and not telling her until literally his bags were packed and at the door. Of course his wife, Ellen, was not going to understand why her husband was abandoning her and not going to take his exit well.
Eight years is a long time, and much has developed during those years, and when family circumstances force Mark to return, and reconcile with his wife, he is forced to face those changes and reconcile with the past, including his own cowardice, immaturity, and lack of judgement. The woman he discovers is not the woman he thought he left behind, and he is fascinated by the vibrant and intelligent woman Ellen has become, but chastened by the fact that he never bothered to learn enough about her in the past to foster her interests. Ellen was a young woman following the expectations foisted upon her as a debutante, not knowing any better. But when she was abandoned and forced to suffer life changing events without her husband, in her recovery she found a passion and purpose in ensuring other women do not suffer as she had, when she suffered the loss of her child. She has spent years learning the most modern methods of prenatal and post natal care, especially for premature births, determined to save as many babies as she can, with the resources she has, especially amongst the poor in St. Giles. This includes her like-minded friends in the clinic she funds and works in, a retired midwife, and a woman doctor who works tirelessly to care for those living in the stews.
When Mark suddenly reappears in her life, she rejects him outright, but when her family threatens to constrain her radical activities working amonst the poor, she is forced to choose a lesser evil and strikes a deal with her husband which will allow her to continue her work.
Mark takes this new opportunity to learn about Ellen and her interests and finds himself falling for her, but also facing truths about the past that he was able to ignore, when he was comfortably distant from them. Ellen distrusts Mark, with good reason, but when he insists on being a part of her life and work, the barriers she builds start to crack, and she starts to trust and care for him again. But when she discovers that their reconciliation may be motivated on his part by his family's need for an heir, the perceived betrayal of her new found trust may be enough to break them apart for good.
Historical romance with lots of emotion as they both face the past, with Mark facing his mistakes and his losses, and Ellen dealing with his abandonment and her traumatic loss. They need to relearn each other and overcome past broken trust as well, while negotiating a new relationship in their new knowledge of each other.
4.5 stars out of 5
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this second chance romance, although to be fair, these two kids barely had their first chance. Mark married Ellen because he needed an heiress to shore up his situation as a younger brother. He soon discovered that the pretty and charming girl he courted doesn't have any there there. They were both young when they married (18 & 20) and Mark in particular acted very immaturely. Instead of interrogating why Ellen acted the way she did (hint, the patriarchy) or talking about his concerns with the marriage, he [forks] off to the Navy, barely telling her his plans on the way out the door.
Here's the thing. He married her for money, he made his bed, and he didn't even really try to lie in it at all. He had the benefit of an education and plans to spend his days just Thinking Big Thoughts, and never stops to wonder how the situation is different for women. There's a scene where he's wincingly recalling an instance of Ellen burbling up with an inrelevant comment that derails a conversation, and the reader can quite clearly suss out that she was putting an end to the offensive statements being made, but he just cannot see past the giggle.
Anyway, this is all relevant because his brother the Baron had an accident that will keep him from fathering children, so he needs to come up with an heir. And he comes back from eight years away (he didn't even see her on his shore leaves!) to find a woman completely changed. Indeed, Ellen is now the England expert on premature births, spurred on by her own tragic pregnancy loss. And she *hates* him. I mean justifiably hates him.
Knight does a marvelous job of showing Mark's realization of what he's lost. Not just the baby, which he felt removed from, "It was Ellen who'd been affected, not him. Ellen deserved sympathy; he didn't need it." but also the opportunity to have gotten to know his bride before acting like an impetuous jerk and ripcording out of the marriage. "Mark thought about how immature and silly Ellen had been at eighteen when they first met, and then how, honestly, he'd been worse at twenty."
TBH, Mark is still the immature one in the relationship. Ellen has carved out a much-needed and important life for herself, making a real contribution and he is still (initially) trying to figure out to follow the same dreams he had as a young man. And pulling the same "leave without talking about it" moves that he did as that young man. These two need to learn to talk about their reckoning of the past and their hopes and fears for the future, so they don't replay the mistakes of the beginning of their marriage.
I love the way Knight has woven in her research about premature births and pregnancy loss in the time. Childbirth was dangerous, and not everyone survivied, and parents were deeply affected, just as they are today. The depiction of the hopes and fears and resentment and anger that are part and parcel of loss and pregnancy after loss was beautifully done here.
The only quibble I have with this book, and its a small one, is the transition from hate to affection and love that Ellen undergoes. Knight does the work to get the characters there, I was just hoping for more somehow. As it is the transition feels a little abrupt, as does their shift to intimacy, and conversations and revelations that maybe needed to come earlier come later. That's life I guess, non-linear when you want a clear path.
On a line level the prose here is just lovely. I have so many kindle highlights of beautiful turns of phrase. Knight is known for her mastery of the novella form, and this is her first full-length book. Listen, did I need the whole villain plot? Not really. But I will say the inclusion of it gave this book a very pleasing old school "lots going on here" feel. 4.5 stars.
Thank you to the author for the arc.
Here's the thing. He married her for money, he made his bed, and he didn't even really try to lie in it at all. He had the benefit of an education and plans to spend his days just Thinking Big Thoughts, and never stops to wonder how the situation is different for women. There's a scene where he's wincingly recalling an instance of Ellen burbling up with an inrelevant comment that derails a conversation, and the reader can quite clearly suss out that she was putting an end to the offensive statements being made, but he just cannot see past the giggle.
Anyway, this is all relevant because his brother the Baron had an accident that will keep him from fathering children, so he needs to come up with an heir. And he comes back from eight years away (he didn't even see her on his shore leaves!) to find a woman completely changed. Indeed, Ellen is now the England expert on premature births, spurred on by her own tragic pregnancy loss. And she *hates* him. I mean justifiably hates him.
Knight does a marvelous job of showing Mark's realization of what he's lost. Not just the baby, which he felt removed from, "It was Ellen who'd been affected, not him. Ellen deserved sympathy; he didn't need it." but also the opportunity to have gotten to know his bride before acting like an impetuous jerk and ripcording out of the marriage. "Mark thought about how immature and silly Ellen had been at eighteen when they first met, and then how, honestly, he'd been worse at twenty."
TBH, Mark is still the immature one in the relationship. Ellen has carved out a much-needed and important life for herself, making a real contribution and he is still (initially) trying to figure out to follow the same dreams he had as a young man. And pulling the same "leave without talking about it" moves that he did as that young man. These two need to learn to talk about their reckoning of the past and their hopes and fears for the future, so they don't replay the mistakes of the beginning of their marriage.
I love the way Knight has woven in her research about premature births and pregnancy loss in the time. Childbirth was dangerous, and not everyone survivied, and parents were deeply affected, just as they are today. The depiction of the hopes and fears and resentment and anger that are part and parcel of loss and pregnancy after loss was beautifully done here.
The only quibble I have with this book, and its a small one, is the transition from hate to affection and love that Ellen undergoes. Knight does the work to get the characters there, I was just hoping for more somehow. As it is the transition feels a little abrupt, as does their shift to intimacy, and conversations and revelations that maybe needed to come earlier come later. That's life I guess, non-linear when you want a clear path.
On a line level the prose here is just lovely. I have so many kindle highlights of beautiful turns of phrase. Knight is known for her mastery of the novella form, and this is her first full-length book. Listen, did I need the whole villain plot? Not really. But I will say the inclusion of it gave this book a very pleasing old school "lots going on here" feel. 4.5 stars.
Thank you to the author for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mark may start as "awful," but he shows up without arrogant swagger or brooding armor to reconnect with his estranged wife, Ellen. He comes back curious about this new, adult version of the giggling debutante he thought he knew — he watches and takes her in before he judges. That sensitivity is enough to let him grow into who he needs to be. He works because of his softness, not despite it.
Mark and Ellen have been estranged for eight years. He initiates their reunion (surprise! Your husband is back!) when he is called home from the Royal Navy to produce an heir. He remembers Ellen as an airheaded 19-year-old who, granted, he was infatuated with, but also embarrassed him as a would-be Oxford scholar. He left her with little notice and was gone during a time of significant loss and subsequent trauma.
To his credit, Mark arrives in London as earnest and sincere, understanding he will need to woo Ellen. But she's furious. And he's baffled: she's not the ridiculous, embarrassing debutante he left behind for the Navy, and he's intrigued by who she's become. His growth over the course of this story is exponential as he comes to terms with (and falls in love with) this brilliant, driven, passionate woman who has replaced the silly teenager he married.
Ellen has built lists, routines and rituals to process the grief she’s had years to sit with. She’s foul-mouthed, angry with Mark and a little lonely. She softens toward Mark as it’s clear he is willing to see her, carry some of her burden and help her protect her peace.
Mark and Ellen are on different clocks. She’s processed her grief, but he hasn’t. Knight writes this grief, and how each of them moves through it, with a care that I could tell came from lived experience even before I read her author's note.
Knight renders each of the characters and the world in sharp detail. St. Giles feels real. As a reader, I can see and feel it as Ellen and her dispensary colleagues help their patients. Thankfully, we are protected from having to smell it. The classism of the women making the donations cuts sharp and serves to remind us that these assumptions still exist today. These details give us more than a marriage reconciliation plot. They give us a whole world.
My one caveat (and it’s small) is that the ending runs a bit chaotic against the pacing of the story up to that point. But the threads all resolve and chaotic and dramatic may be exactly what Mark and Ellen needed to break their stalemate.
I’m a big fan of Knight’s novellas and her ability to tell a full story in a short format. I was so happy to see that style extend to this first full-length story and still deliver expert storytelling. That storytelling is why I couldn’t put this book down.
Mark is one of my favorite MMCs I’ve ever read. His sensitivity and softness don’t feel like a put-on; they’re real and they show up over and over.
Mark and Ellen have been estranged for eight years. He initiates their reunion (surprise! Your husband is back!) when he is called home from the Royal Navy to produce an heir. He remembers Ellen as an airheaded 19-year-old who, granted, he was infatuated with, but also embarrassed him as a would-be Oxford scholar. He left her with little notice and was gone during a time of significant loss and subsequent trauma.
To his credit, Mark arrives in London as earnest and sincere, understanding he will need to woo Ellen. But she's furious. And he's baffled: she's not the ridiculous, embarrassing debutante he left behind for the Navy, and he's intrigued by who she's become. His growth over the course of this story is exponential as he comes to terms with (and falls in love with) this brilliant, driven, passionate woman who has replaced the silly teenager he married.
Ellen has built lists, routines and rituals to process the grief she’s had years to sit with. She’s foul-mouthed, angry with Mark and a little lonely. She softens toward Mark as it’s clear he is willing to see her, carry some of her burden and help her protect her peace.
Mark and Ellen are on different clocks. She’s processed her grief, but he hasn’t. Knight writes this grief, and how each of them moves through it, with a care that I could tell came from lived experience even before I read her author's note.
Knight renders each of the characters and the world in sharp detail. St. Giles feels real. As a reader, I can see and feel it as Ellen and her dispensary colleagues help their patients. Thankfully, we are protected from having to smell it. The classism of the women making the donations cuts sharp and serves to remind us that these assumptions still exist today. These details give us more than a marriage reconciliation plot. They give us a whole world.
My one caveat (and it’s small) is that the ending runs a bit chaotic against the pacing of the story up to that point. But the threads all resolve and chaotic and dramatic may be exactly what Mark and Ellen needed to break their stalemate.
I’m a big fan of Knight’s novellas and her ability to tell a full story in a short format. I was so happy to see that style extend to this first full-length story and still deliver expert storytelling. That storytelling is why I couldn’t put this book down.
Mark is one of my favorite MMCs I’ve ever read. His sensitivity and softness don’t feel like a put-on; they’re real and they show up over and over.
August 5, 2026
I love romance novels with abandoned wives, remorseful husbands, and second chances. This book had everything to be one of my favorites, but honestly it bored me.
I'll start by saying that the plot is quite unique. The main characters got married young, but shortly after, he decided she was an immature, scatterbrained girl, so he ran off to join the Navy. She got pregnant and the baby died after being born prematurely. That permanently distanced them until an accident makes the hero the new heir to a title and in need of heirs. Now, years later, he discovers that his wife is a mature woman who helps in the poor neighborhoods of London so that premature babies survive.
As I said, I love heroes who were total jerks but end up groveling and getting the heroine's forgiveness, but here things just didn't click for me. We don't have a look into the past that allows us to really connect with them or know what happened, we only have his perception. And honestly, his perception is trash, because who is he to judge someone's intelligence? She likes pink, laughs a lot, and isn't interested in Greek mythology, so what? Well, Mr. Perfect feels that just because of that she is a useless fool. The worst part is that years pass and he "matures," but he still believes the same thing. He only starts liking the main character again because she behaves differently, because she no longer wears pink, knows a few things about Greek mythology, knows how to hold a conversation, and has scientific interests. In other words, if she hadn't lost her baby, a tragedy that forced her to spend half her time in mourning, he would still believe she is a useless fool.
That brings me to the other problem I had with the plot. The idea of charity is a bit strange. I understand and find a heroine's interest in obstetrics very innovative, but many times I felt that the heroine treated the babies and mothers more like guinea pigs than human beings. I mean, you go to homes where women are literally starving to death, where there are malnourished children in the middle of filth, and even though she is super rich compared to them, she can't even bring them a plate of cookies, leftovers from her food, or a blanket? It gives the feeling that hers was more of an obsession than sincere empathy, although that's just my interpretation.
Lastly I will say that, outside of the research topic and the babies, the story didn't have anything holding it up for me. The hero, once he sees that his wife no longer wears pink and doesn't laugh all the time, becomes the ideal man: protective, handsome, good in bed, very understanding, and super kind. He becomes too perfect and boring. There are no real problems between him and the heroine except for a tiny misunderstanding, and the side characters are way too bland.
I don't know if I'll read anything else by this author. I don't feel like the book is horrible, but I feel like it's too simple for my taste.
I'll start by saying that the plot is quite unique. The main characters got married young, but shortly after, he decided she was an immature, scatterbrained girl, so he ran off to join the Navy. She got pregnant and the baby died after being born prematurely. That permanently distanced them until an accident makes the hero the new heir to a title and in need of heirs. Now, years later, he discovers that his wife is a mature woman who helps in the poor neighborhoods of London so that premature babies survive.
As I said, I love heroes who were total jerks but end up groveling and getting the heroine's forgiveness, but here things just didn't click for me. We don't have a look into the past that allows us to really connect with them or know what happened, we only have his perception. And honestly, his perception is trash, because who is he to judge someone's intelligence? She likes pink, laughs a lot, and isn't interested in Greek mythology, so what? Well, Mr. Perfect feels that just because of that she is a useless fool. The worst part is that years pass and he "matures," but he still believes the same thing. He only starts liking the main character again because she behaves differently, because she no longer wears pink, knows a few things about Greek mythology, knows how to hold a conversation, and has scientific interests. In other words, if she hadn't lost her baby, a tragedy that forced her to spend half her time in mourning, he would still believe she is a useless fool.
That brings me to the other problem I had with the plot. The idea of charity is a bit strange. I understand and find a heroine's interest in obstetrics very innovative, but many times I felt that the heroine treated the babies and mothers more like guinea pigs than human beings. I mean, you go to homes where women are literally starving to death, where there are malnourished children in the middle of filth, and even though she is super rich compared to them, she can't even bring them a plate of cookies, leftovers from her food, or a blanket? It gives the feeling that hers was more of an obsession than sincere empathy, although that's just my interpretation.
Lastly I will say that, outside of the research topic and the babies, the story didn't have anything holding it up for me. The hero, once he sees that his wife no longer wears pink and doesn't laugh all the time, becomes the ideal man: protective, handsome, good in bed, very understanding, and super kind. He becomes too perfect and boring. There are no real problems between him and the heroine except for a tiny misunderstanding, and the side characters are way too bland.
I don't know if I'll read anything else by this author. I don't feel like the book is horrible, but I feel like it's too simple for my taste.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Tropes: second chance romance; forced proximity; MFC traumatized by a past experience
Steam level: 3
TW: stillbirth
4.5 stars rounded up. Don't let the cover and title fool you; this is not your standard romance novel. I've enjoyed Anne Knight's Victorian England-set HR's in the past (especially "A Girton Girl's Guide to Longing and Loathing") but this book is outstanding in its unflinching honesty regarding childbirth, bringing to light issues that resonate today (the US definitely still has room to improve when it comes to women's healthcare).
I thought I was somewhat aware of the history of childbirth from my own research before I had my second child almost 20 years ago, but my eyes were opened by details the author wove into this storyline. MFC Ellen and her colleagues face challenge after challenge as they give women who live in the slums prenatal and postnatal care, even taking on the role of midwife when forced to. Knight based MFC Ellen's pregnancy experiences on her own, cluing me into a medical condition I never knew existed (it's explained in her notes at the end).
Be aware that there are thoughtfully written but heartrending, and in some cases grim, scenes centering around the topics of poverty, social inequality, and the grief of losing a baby.
I haven't mentioned the central romance much in this review, which I know is rather odd. MMC Mark does have chemistry with Ellen, and the open-door scenes are well written, with more of a natural tone than in a lot of romance novels. Mark starts off as basically a somewhat oblivious cinnamon roll who finds an opening to reunite with the wife he left behind many years ago, thinking that he'll finally produce the heir his family expects him to. Instead, he finally comes to terms with what he lost after he left and what he needs to do to regain his wife's love.
The only real weaknesses of his book emerge when the author tries to follow the usual HR beats. Mark's sudden decision to join the Navy right after he and Ellen marry feels orchestrated. They have so many sweet moments together but then fail to communicate on basic issues. The Third Act Miscommunication had me so frustrated that I almost lowered my star rating to 4, especially when the telegraphed confrontation involving the baddie arose. Although the action was exciting, I felt like it detracted from the more nuanced scenes between the MC's that were a highlight for me. The jump to the epilogue felt a bit jarring.
In the end, though, I had to round up to 5 stars. This book brings up so many important issues involving society's strengths and failings when it comes to childbirth, as well as what it means to trust and love someone through grief. Highly recommend.
This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book. Thanks to the author and Net Galley for this opportunity.
Steam level: 3
TW: stillbirth
4.5 stars rounded up. Don't let the cover and title fool you; this is not your standard romance novel. I've enjoyed Anne Knight's Victorian England-set HR's in the past (especially "A Girton Girl's Guide to Longing and Loathing") but this book is outstanding in its unflinching honesty regarding childbirth, bringing to light issues that resonate today (the US definitely still has room to improve when it comes to women's healthcare).
I thought I was somewhat aware of the history of childbirth from my own research before I had my second child almost 20 years ago, but my eyes were opened by details the author wove into this storyline. MFC Ellen and her colleagues face challenge after challenge as they give women who live in the slums prenatal and postnatal care, even taking on the role of midwife when forced to. Knight based MFC Ellen's pregnancy experiences on her own, cluing me into a medical condition I never knew existed (it's explained in her notes at the end).
Be aware that there are thoughtfully written but heartrending, and in some cases grim, scenes centering around the topics of poverty, social inequality, and the grief of losing a baby.
I haven't mentioned the central romance much in this review, which I know is rather odd. MMC Mark does have chemistry with Ellen, and the open-door scenes are well written, with more of a natural tone than in a lot of romance novels. Mark starts off as basically a somewhat oblivious cinnamon roll who finds an opening to reunite with the wife he left behind many years ago, thinking that he'll finally produce the heir his family expects him to. Instead, he finally comes to terms with what he lost after he left and what he needs to do to regain his wife's love.
The only real weaknesses of his book emerge when the author tries to follow the usual HR beats. Mark's sudden decision to join the Navy right after he and Ellen marry feels orchestrated. They have so many sweet moments together but then fail to communicate on basic issues. The Third Act Miscommunication had me so frustrated that I almost lowered my star rating to 4, especially when the telegraphed confrontation involving the baddie arose. Although the action was exciting, I felt like it detracted from the more nuanced scenes between the MC's that were a highlight for me. The jump to the epilogue felt a bit jarring.
In the end, though, I had to round up to 5 stars. This book brings up so many important issues involving society's strengths and failings when it comes to childbirth, as well as what it means to trust and love someone through grief. Highly recommend.
This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book. Thanks to the author and Net Galley for this opportunity.
July 29, 2026
4.5 rounded to 5
Anne Knight’s first full length novel surprised me with its depth and sensitivity, offering a well researched historical romance that centres neonatal care, pregnancy loss, and the particular grief carried by mothers. Ellen and Mark’s marriage begins as a youthful, transactional match built on attraction, but his immaturity sends him fleeing to the Navy after only three months, leaving Ellen to face a devastating stillbirth alone. Eight years later he returns, older and in need of an heir, while Ellen has rebuilt her life through work with poor mothers and premature infants. Their reunion is fraught, shaped by who they’ve become and the painful history between them, and the novel traces their uneasy, necessity driven reconciliation with all its sorrows and joy.
What stood out most for me was the detailed way Knight renders the living conditions of the poor in Victorian London. The streets and alleys of St. Giles, the particular hardships faced by women and children, and the stark social divides of the era are all drawn with care. She shows the roles played by the middle and upper classes, both helpful and harmful, and takes on the patriarchy in subtle and overt ways to highlight the constraints placed on women of every class.
The sensitive handling of infant and pregnancy loss is another strength. Having lived through two miscarriages of my own, one difficult birth, and one healthy one, I felt Knight captured the emotional trauma of those experiences with real accuracy. Her portrayal of the aftermath of pregnancy loss, especially for the mother, is thoughtful and compassionate. Learning more about the particular challenges of the Victorian era was fascinating and also underscored both the progress and the stagnation in women’s healthcare today.
There is also a love story here. While I found Mark a bit flat, Knight shows how he has changed and gives him a solid redemption arc with a couple of stumbles before his full atonement. Ellen, too, takes her time to forgive him and accept him as a husband worthy of her trust. I appreciated that she didn’t lower all her defenses at once. The steamy scenes are well written and serve the relationship and the story. The relationship between Mark and Ellen is believable and even though the ending felt a bit rushed, it was a satisfying end to the romance. The title, a but misleading in that it brings to mind a duke, ends up fitting the story really well once the connection is revealed later in the novel.
Aside from some pacing issues, this is a strong first novel, and I’m glad that I supported it on Kickstarter and thank the author for the ARC as well.
Anne Knight’s first full length novel surprised me with its depth and sensitivity, offering a well researched historical romance that centres neonatal care, pregnancy loss, and the particular grief carried by mothers. Ellen and Mark’s marriage begins as a youthful, transactional match built on attraction, but his immaturity sends him fleeing to the Navy after only three months, leaving Ellen to face a devastating stillbirth alone. Eight years later he returns, older and in need of an heir, while Ellen has rebuilt her life through work with poor mothers and premature infants. Their reunion is fraught, shaped by who they’ve become and the painful history between them, and the novel traces their uneasy, necessity driven reconciliation with all its sorrows and joy.
What stood out most for me was the detailed way Knight renders the living conditions of the poor in Victorian London. The streets and alleys of St. Giles, the particular hardships faced by women and children, and the stark social divides of the era are all drawn with care. She shows the roles played by the middle and upper classes, both helpful and harmful, and takes on the patriarchy in subtle and overt ways to highlight the constraints placed on women of every class.
The sensitive handling of infant and pregnancy loss is another strength. Having lived through two miscarriages of my own, one difficult birth, and one healthy one, I felt Knight captured the emotional trauma of those experiences with real accuracy. Her portrayal of the aftermath of pregnancy loss, especially for the mother, is thoughtful and compassionate. Learning more about the particular challenges of the Victorian era was fascinating and also underscored both the progress and the stagnation in women’s healthcare today.
There is also a love story here. While I found Mark a bit flat, Knight shows how he has changed and gives him a solid redemption arc with a couple of stumbles before his full atonement. Ellen, too, takes her time to forgive him and accept him as a husband worthy of her trust. I appreciated that she didn’t lower all her defenses at once. The steamy scenes are well written and serve the relationship and the story. The relationship between Mark and Ellen is believable and even though the ending felt a bit rushed, it was a satisfying end to the romance. The title, a but misleading in that it brings to mind a duke, ends up fitting the story really well once the connection is revealed later in the novel.
Aside from some pacing issues, this is a strong first novel, and I’m glad that I supported it on Kickstarter and thank the author for the ARC as well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a story Anne has given us with this one. Be sure to read the content warnings as this book may not be for everyone. This story hit really close to home as I had a premature baby, and he would not have lived if he was born during the time of this story. Mark Grenfall has returned home after spending eight years in the navy due to his brother Matthew having a serious accident. Now he must face the young wife he left after only three months of marriage. They were very young and fell in love fast, not really getting to know each other. Mark was embarrassed by her lack of intelligence and her giggle and love of fripperies. So, he ran, not taking the time to talk to her or tell her what he was feeling. Hard, ugly words were said by both. Now he is back and he finds a woman instead of the girl he left, and he doesn’t know her at all. She is smart, helping the under privilege of London by teaching them how to care for premature babies. Ellen can’t believe Mark is back; she thought to never see him again. How she hates him for everything he did and didn’t do during their short marriage! She almost lost her mind after the loss of her daughter, and he did nothing but send flowers and a stupid note! As they are forced to spend time in the same house and slowly begin to talk, ask questions and try to understand what happened and why, neither can trust the other. He now knows how much he hurt her and misunderstood why she acted like she did. He knows he doesn’t deserve her now and has no idea how to fix what he messed up so badly. Ellen has a hard time still hating the man who Mark is now. Showing up to help and protect her and his kindness to the people she works with and those she helps. His support is amazing and she is afraid to trust her feelings. When secrets come to light, can their new relationship last or will it tear them apart? This is a very emotional, heart pounding story with lots of twists and turns. Both of our couples have a lot to overcome and deal with. The author gave us so much insight into the lives of the common people and what they had to do to live without any help or very little from wealthy. As you read the story, you may have to put it down and then come back to it. I have read over 100 books so far this year and this one is the most emotional and heartfelt I have read. It will stay with you for a long while. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. Don’t miss this one; it is an amazing story.
July 30, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Thank you to Anne Knight for an ARC of this book!
The title of this book is very apt because for the first half of the book, Mark really was awful. But then, he wasn't so bad.
I really enjoyed Ellen as a main character. She talk what will undoubtably be one of the worst moments of her life and channelled that anger and sadness into doing something good for people who are less of fortunate than she is. She was such an incredible person and her strongest traits were those that were diminished the most by her family. I really enjoyed that she resisted Mark and rightly kept him at a distance until they could prove that he had changed.
In the flashbacks and the memories, you can tell that Mark was a very immature man. While his years at sea changed him, they weren't necessary for better or worse. It's not until he comes face to face with Ellen again that he can truly begin to understand the devastation he'll left behind and how his casual cruelty affected her so much. In one sense I felt a bit sorry for him, because he was young and he didn't know what to do but on the other hand Ellen was the same age and was completely alone. I think Anne did a very creditable job over redeeming Mark by the end of the book. It was really important for him to be interested in Ellen and her medical work. By the end he became a champion of her which was such a stark contrast to the dynamic of their relationship when it ended years ago.
The past versions of Mark and Ellen didn't work together. They were too young, too naive and (in Mark's case) too egotistical. However the newer versions of them were believable as a couple in love and you wanted to root for them by the end of the book. While Ellen changed so much and grew so much as a person in the intervening years, Mark's main growth took place over the course of this book. He was the one who really needed to open his eyes and appreciate what was in front of him. There was definitely chemistry between the two characters and it became clearer once they began to trust each other more.
What is spoke to deal with a couple of heavy topics, I did think they were handled quite sensitively. At times it wasn't necessarily an easy book to but it was worth it I think in the end because those moments were very defining for Mark and Ellen's relationship.
There are plenty of stories that can be told from this particular universe (the nurse and the brother come to mind !!) and I hope Anne Knight continues to explore them.
Thank you to Anne Knight for an ARC of this book!
The title of this book is very apt because for the first half of the book, Mark really was awful. But then, he wasn't so bad.
I really enjoyed Ellen as a main character. She talk what will undoubtably be one of the worst moments of her life and channelled that anger and sadness into doing something good for people who are less of fortunate than she is. She was such an incredible person and her strongest traits were those that were diminished the most by her family. I really enjoyed that she resisted Mark and rightly kept him at a distance until they could prove that he had changed.
In the flashbacks and the memories, you can tell that Mark was a very immature man. While his years at sea changed him, they weren't necessary for better or worse. It's not until he comes face to face with Ellen again that he can truly begin to understand the devastation he'll left behind and how his casual cruelty affected her so much. In one sense I felt a bit sorry for him, because he was young and he didn't know what to do but on the other hand Ellen was the same age and was completely alone. I think Anne did a very creditable job over redeeming Mark by the end of the book. It was really important for him to be interested in Ellen and her medical work. By the end he became a champion of her which was such a stark contrast to the dynamic of their relationship when it ended years ago.
The past versions of Mark and Ellen didn't work together. They were too young, too naive and (in Mark's case) too egotistical. However the newer versions of them were believable as a couple in love and you wanted to root for them by the end of the book. While Ellen changed so much and grew so much as a person in the intervening years, Mark's main growth took place over the course of this book. He was the one who really needed to open his eyes and appreciate what was in front of him. There was definitely chemistry between the two characters and it became clearer once they began to trust each other more.
What is spoke to deal with a couple of heavy topics, I did think they were handled quite sensitively. At times it wasn't necessarily an easy book to but it was worth it I think in the end because those moments were very defining for Mark and Ellen's relationship.
There are plenty of stories that can be told from this particular universe (the nurse and the brother come to mind !!) and I hope Anne Knight continues to explore them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Awful Grace is a wonderful example of the amazing things the historical romance genre has been doing lately; it's a smart, obviously well researched and well written book that isn't just a bunch of tropes in a raincoat and actually takes an unflinching look at how truly terrible life sometimes was in an era before we had all the amenities and options we now take for granted, while still delivering a beautiful love story. Honestly, the contemporary romance girlies who vehemently refuse to engage with reality and just want mindless escapism probably wouldn't be able to handle this.
While the storyline focusing on maternal and infant care was fascinating and heartbreaking, which I was expecting, I was pleasantly surprised to see how well Anne Knight portrayed the often brutal business of marriage in Victorian England and how she dared to make her hero look pretty bad in that sense. While Mark was a fundamentally decent man, when the book focuses on his and Ellen's courtship and early days of marriage, he does not really win many points with his brutal assessment of his wife's intellect. Ellen, on the other hand, was just playing the role she'd been indoctrinated into believing she was supposed to play, that of a vapid, simpering beauty who'd never challenge the Oxford scholar's ego and sense of superiority. When the book opens, they've been estranged for eight years, and Mark needs to woo back a wife he no longer recognizes, because this new Ellen is a competent healthcare provider with a strong sense of self and a very valid chip on her shoulder. This was the best part of the book for me, seeing Ellen kick ass through her flabbergasted husband's eyes and seeing them rebuild their bond. The medical aspect was also very interesting and the book got pretty bleak at some points, which I appreciate. As I said, this type of historicals is what I consider the best in the genre: a smart book focusing on women and a social justice issue that is still relevant today, paired with a swoonworthy, explicit romance.
The only thing that I had issues with was that the dialogue did sound a touch too modern at moments, with some, frankly, annoying Americanisms, but I did get used to it and it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story. Also, would it be too much to expect the story of Mark's brother and That Nurse? The setup, achieved through a single letter, was amazing.
Huge thanks to Anne Knight for the ARC.
While the storyline focusing on maternal and infant care was fascinating and heartbreaking, which I was expecting, I was pleasantly surprised to see how well Anne Knight portrayed the often brutal business of marriage in Victorian England and how she dared to make her hero look pretty bad in that sense. While Mark was a fundamentally decent man, when the book focuses on his and Ellen's courtship and early days of marriage, he does not really win many points with his brutal assessment of his wife's intellect. Ellen, on the other hand, was just playing the role she'd been indoctrinated into believing she was supposed to play, that of a vapid, simpering beauty who'd never challenge the Oxford scholar's ego and sense of superiority. When the book opens, they've been estranged for eight years, and Mark needs to woo back a wife he no longer recognizes, because this new Ellen is a competent healthcare provider with a strong sense of self and a very valid chip on her shoulder. This was the best part of the book for me, seeing Ellen kick ass through her flabbergasted husband's eyes and seeing them rebuild their bond. The medical aspect was also very interesting and the book got pretty bleak at some points, which I appreciate. As I said, this type of historicals is what I consider the best in the genre: a smart book focusing on women and a social justice issue that is still relevant today, paired with a swoonworthy, explicit romance.
The only thing that I had issues with was that the dialogue did sound a touch too modern at moments, with some, frankly, annoying Americanisms, but I did get used to it and it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story. Also, would it be too much to expect the story of Mark's brother and That Nurse? The setup, achieved through a single letter, was amazing.
Huge thanks to Anne Knight for the ARC.
August 1, 2026
am an avid reader of historical romances, and second-chance love stories hold a special place in my heart—especially those involving married couples. There’s something deeply moving about two people who have already pledged themselves to one another finding the courage to try again. In today’s world, it often feels like people give up too quickly, but in this story, the couple fights through tremendous obstacles, and the author masterfully immerses us in every emotion they feel along the way.
This book is far from a typical historical romance. While the couple’s journey back to each other is beautifully told, the story’s deeper themes carry even greater weight. It is clear that the author approached this subject with extensive research and a genuine passion for portraying it authentically. If you are sensitive to themes of infant loss and premature births, I recommend reviewing the trigger warnings before diving in. Anne handles these delicate topics with grace, honesty, and an undercurrent of hope that guides you through the heart-wrenching moments.
Mark and Ellen’s second-chance journey is raw, emotional, and profoundly human. Their love story is filled with misunderstandings, setbacks, and the kind of mistakes that leave lasting scars, yet each misstep leads to growth. Watching Mark evolve—facing the pain of his past, understanding what he lost eight years ago, and striving to make amends—is incredibly rewarding. Ellen’s strength and resilience after rebuilding her life are inspiring; she is compassionate, independent, and selfless, even amid her grief.
The book does not shy away from the complexities of mourning, the fear of creating another heir while grappling with devastating loss, and the fragile hope that persists even in the darkest times. There are scenes that are heartbreaking, yet the journey never feels hopeless. The exploration of grief is tender and authentic, and Mark’s emotional awakening is one of the most satisfying that I have read in a long time.
This is a powerful, moving story that lingers in your heart long after you close the book. Anne’s ability to balance intense emotion with ultimately uplifting hope is a testament to her extraordinary talent as a storyteller. She has created a second-chance romance that is as unforgettable as it is profound—an amazing story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a free Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is far from a typical historical romance. While the couple’s journey back to each other is beautifully told, the story’s deeper themes carry even greater weight. It is clear that the author approached this subject with extensive research and a genuine passion for portraying it authentically. If you are sensitive to themes of infant loss and premature births, I recommend reviewing the trigger warnings before diving in. Anne handles these delicate topics with grace, honesty, and an undercurrent of hope that guides you through the heart-wrenching moments.
Mark and Ellen’s second-chance journey is raw, emotional, and profoundly human. Their love story is filled with misunderstandings, setbacks, and the kind of mistakes that leave lasting scars, yet each misstep leads to growth. Watching Mark evolve—facing the pain of his past, understanding what he lost eight years ago, and striving to make amends—is incredibly rewarding. Ellen’s strength and resilience after rebuilding her life are inspiring; she is compassionate, independent, and selfless, even amid her grief.
The book does not shy away from the complexities of mourning, the fear of creating another heir while grappling with devastating loss, and the fragile hope that persists even in the darkest times. There are scenes that are heartbreaking, yet the journey never feels hopeless. The exploration of grief is tender and authentic, and Mark’s emotional awakening is one of the most satisfying that I have read in a long time.
This is a powerful, moving story that lingers in your heart long after you close the book. Anne’s ability to balance intense emotion with ultimately uplifting hope is a testament to her extraordinary talent as a storyteller. She has created a second-chance romance that is as unforgettable as it is profound—an amazing story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a free Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went in expecting a standard second-chance Victorian romance. I did not expect to get my heart completely dismantled by a 19th-century neonatologist in a green dress.
London, 1887. Ellen Grenfall is not waiting prettily in Mayfair for her husband to come home. After losing her own infant, and after eight years of an abandoned marriage, she has built something radical: a medical dispensary in St. Giles for premature babies and their mothers. She is brilliant, furious, grieving, and completely uninterested in being rescued.
Then Mark Grenfall walks back in. Royal Navy officer, estranged husband, the man who left. His family sent him home to produce an heir. What he finds is not the giggling debutante he married. It is a woman who has become formidable without him.
What sold me: Knight does not let Mark off easy, and she does not magically fix Ellen either. This is a real grovel, earned page by page. He reads her research. He stands guard at the dispensary doors. He learns how to be useful instead of just being sorry. And Ellen, god, Ellen. She is allowed to be angry and ambitious and terrified of trying again, all at once. The medical history here is phenomenal – you can feel the research, without it ever reading like a lecture.
The central conflict – two grieving people being told they owe the world an heir when they are not sure they can survive losing another child – wrecked me. It is tender and devastating and ultimately so hopeful.
It is slow burn in the best way. When they finally touch again, it means something.
Not a light, frothy Bridgerton romp. This is closer to The Essex Serpent meets Evie Dunmore, with actual scalpels. If you want a heroine in STEM who is taken seriously, a husband who grovels correctly, and a love story built on respect first, read this.
I cried three times. Would do it again.
Content warnings: infant loss / stillbirth (backstory, discussed throughout), premature birth / infant medical distress, grief, marital estrangement, pressure to conceive, class disparity / poverty and medical neglect
Tropes: Second chance / estranged marriage, He falls first, Medical heroine, Victorian London, Slow burn, Grief and healing, Found family
London, 1887. Ellen Grenfall is not waiting prettily in Mayfair for her husband to come home. After losing her own infant, and after eight years of an abandoned marriage, she has built something radical: a medical dispensary in St. Giles for premature babies and their mothers. She is brilliant, furious, grieving, and completely uninterested in being rescued.
Then Mark Grenfall walks back in. Royal Navy officer, estranged husband, the man who left. His family sent him home to produce an heir. What he finds is not the giggling debutante he married. It is a woman who has become formidable without him.
What sold me: Knight does not let Mark off easy, and she does not magically fix Ellen either. This is a real grovel, earned page by page. He reads her research. He stands guard at the dispensary doors. He learns how to be useful instead of just being sorry. And Ellen, god, Ellen. She is allowed to be angry and ambitious and terrified of trying again, all at once. The medical history here is phenomenal – you can feel the research, without it ever reading like a lecture.
The central conflict – two grieving people being told they owe the world an heir when they are not sure they can survive losing another child – wrecked me. It is tender and devastating and ultimately so hopeful.
It is slow burn in the best way. When they finally touch again, it means something.
Not a light, frothy Bridgerton romp. This is closer to The Essex Serpent meets Evie Dunmore, with actual scalpels. If you want a heroine in STEM who is taken seriously, a husband who grovels correctly, and a love story built on respect first, read this.
I cried three times. Would do it again.
Content warnings: infant loss / stillbirth (backstory, discussed throughout), premature birth / infant medical distress, grief, marital estrangement, pressure to conceive, class disparity / poverty and medical neglect
Tropes: Second chance / estranged marriage, He falls first, Medical heroine, Victorian London, Slow burn, Grief and healing, Found family
September 2, 2026
Victorian England, 1887
Eight years ago, Mark Grenfall to the Navy to escape his young, struggling marriage to beautiful, embarrassingly giggly debutante Ellen. In the years since her abandonment, Ellen has become England's foremost neonatology expert and, despite being an aristocratic wife, spends her days fighting in the poorest areas of London to save premature infants and their mothers, a cause close to her heart since her own stillbirth years before. When Mark returns unexpectedly, newly retired from the Navy and in need of an heir, he hardly recognizes the intelligent, accomplished, fierce woman his wife has grown into. Somehow, Mark has to convince his uninterested wife to return to his bed, a challenge he's increasingly looking forward to.
This was Ellen's book. Her character growth; her pain and past; her fierce dedication to what she sees as her duty; and the depth of care Knight dedicates to developing Ellen's medical expertise made up the emotional core of this book for me. This is quite a serious, heavy, challenging read, in no small part because Knight places the realities of Victorian pregnancy, childbirth, and maternal and infant care on the page for readers (and Mark) to confront head on. In Mark's absence, Ellen has carved a life from her pain and resentment and loneliness, and I enjoyed following along as she slowly opened up to the possibility of having Mark in that life again.
Where His Awful Grace didn't hit the mark for me, however, was with Mark, both individually and as half of the romantic arc. Mark returns from his 8-year naval career a much-changed man—as he should because anyone who doesn't have any personal growth over a decade isn't worth much attention or effort—but, excepting his floundering at finding a new career, that growth is largely done off-page and before the story begins. Further, once he reunites with Ellen, he quite quickly recognizes his past mistakes, his own loss, and how awesome Ellen really is. The result of this is that Mark's arc feels quite separate from Ellen's, and I wasn't entirely satisfied with the development of their relationship together.
Rating: 👍🏻 (liked)
Thank you to the author for an advance copy of this title, which is out now and available via KU!
Eight years ago, Mark Grenfall to the Navy to escape his young, struggling marriage to beautiful, embarrassingly giggly debutante Ellen. In the years since her abandonment, Ellen has become England's foremost neonatology expert and, despite being an aristocratic wife, spends her days fighting in the poorest areas of London to save premature infants and their mothers, a cause close to her heart since her own stillbirth years before. When Mark returns unexpectedly, newly retired from the Navy and in need of an heir, he hardly recognizes the intelligent, accomplished, fierce woman his wife has grown into. Somehow, Mark has to convince his uninterested wife to return to his bed, a challenge he's increasingly looking forward to.
This was Ellen's book. Her character growth; her pain and past; her fierce dedication to what she sees as her duty; and the depth of care Knight dedicates to developing Ellen's medical expertise made up the emotional core of this book for me. This is quite a serious, heavy, challenging read, in no small part because Knight places the realities of Victorian pregnancy, childbirth, and maternal and infant care on the page for readers (and Mark) to confront head on. In Mark's absence, Ellen has carved a life from her pain and resentment and loneliness, and I enjoyed following along as she slowly opened up to the possibility of having Mark in that life again.
Where His Awful Grace didn't hit the mark for me, however, was with Mark, both individually and as half of the romantic arc. Mark returns from his 8-year naval career a much-changed man—as he should because anyone who doesn't have any personal growth over a decade isn't worth much attention or effort—but, excepting his floundering at finding a new career, that growth is largely done off-page and before the story begins. Further, once he reunites with Ellen, he quite quickly recognizes his past mistakes, his own loss, and how awesome Ellen really is. The result of this is that Mark's arc feels quite separate from Ellen's, and I wasn't entirely satisfied with the development of their relationship together.
Rating: 👍🏻 (liked)
Thank you to the author for an advance copy of this title, which is out now and available via KU!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I saw this and had never read anything by the author, so requested and received it on Netgalley.
I think I just found a new favorite author. This book was extraordinarily well written. First, the amount of knowledge/research about neonatology in the 19th century that the author did was extensive. Then she added in a real, believable story that, in a word, captivated.
ODC starts out having been separated for 8 years due to a marriage in which they were too young and did not know each other well. Mark is quickly turned off by his wife's apparent stupidity, and Ellen is baffled as to why he suddenly falls out of love and decides to leave for the navy, on notice so short as to be insulting. What Mark does not know is that within months, she endures a tragedy which traumatizes her for years, and she feels driven to help other women facing her situation. Mark, now halfway across the world, is seemingly uninterested and uncaring about her tragedy, adding insult to injury.
Mark comes back, needing an heir, and discovers that Ellen was neither so silly nor so uneducated as he thought. He realizes in order to win her, he will have to do some major groveling.
I loved, loved, loved these characters. Mark may have been a complete arse in the beginning, but he knows it, and has a deep desire to be a better man to his wife. After 8 years, Ellen has moved on to what is essentially a career, and his words do not mean much to her. How they are able to build trust and love again was a pleasure to read, and during that, I learned a ton about early pregnancy and birth as of 1887. When Mark finally faces his loss, I had to have the tissue nearby. I am glad the author put a warning at the beginning. These themes are a bit triggering to me, as I had a high-risk pregnancy that affected me in negative ways. I needed to know before I dived into the book. The author tells her own story of at the end of the book.
The only thing I can say is READ IT. This is a touching story, but the realism was something we do not ordinarily find in HR. I can't wait to read some of her other books. An easy 5 stars. I can think of no negatives, it was just so well done.
Spice level-4/5
I think I just found a new favorite author. This book was extraordinarily well written. First, the amount of knowledge/research about neonatology in the 19th century that the author did was extensive. Then she added in a real, believable story that, in a word, captivated.
ODC starts out having been separated for 8 years due to a marriage in which they were too young and did not know each other well. Mark is quickly turned off by his wife's apparent stupidity, and Ellen is baffled as to why he suddenly falls out of love and decides to leave for the navy, on notice so short as to be insulting. What Mark does not know is that within months, she endures a tragedy which traumatizes her for years, and she feels driven to help other women facing her situation. Mark, now halfway across the world, is seemingly uninterested and uncaring about her tragedy, adding insult to injury.
Mark comes back, needing an heir, and discovers that Ellen was neither so silly nor so uneducated as he thought. He realizes in order to win her, he will have to do some major groveling.
I loved, loved, loved these characters. Mark may have been a complete arse in the beginning, but he knows it, and has a deep desire to be a better man to his wife. After 8 years, Ellen has moved on to what is essentially a career, and his words do not mean much to her. How they are able to build trust and love again was a pleasure to read, and during that, I learned a ton about early pregnancy and birth as of 1887. When Mark finally faces his loss, I had to have the tissue nearby. I am glad the author put a warning at the beginning. These themes are a bit triggering to me, as I had a high-risk pregnancy that affected me in negative ways. I needed to know before I dived into the book. The author tells her own story of at the end of the book.
The only thing I can say is READ IT. This is a touching story, but the realism was something we do not ordinarily find in HR. I can't wait to read some of her other books. An easy 5 stars. I can think of no negatives, it was just so well done.
Spice level-4/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Awful Grace is a feat. I admire Anne Knight’s courage in exploring subjects that are deeply personal and vitally important. Many readers, myself included, turn to romance for escape. His Awful Grace is absolutely a romance, but it is not an escape. It is, perhaps, something just as valuable. It is an exploration of what love and devotion ask of us. 💛
At times, it feels unimaginable that Ellen and Mark could ever reconcile. That is precisely the point. Knight never asks the reader to overlook the damage that has been done. Instead, she patiently builds two fully realized people. Their failures and grief make their journey toward one another feel deeply earned.
As a woman and a mother, my heart broke for Ellen, and I suspect hers is a journey that will stay with me. Through Ellen’s work in London, Knight also accomplishes something remarkable. She invites us to consider the history of women’s health and maternal care, along with the importance of bodily autonomy. Historical fiction lets us examine the present through the lens of the past, and this novel sharpened my understanding of conversations that remain painfully relevant today. For those who believe we have come a long way, this story is a reminder that we still have a long way to go.
When I finished the novel, I was left with something unexpectedly hopeful. Let me state explicitly that this love story is worth the journey. It is a testament to enduring loyalty and the weight of vows. More than anything, it celebrates the extraordinary resilience of people who choose one another again and again.
Readers should check the content warnings and care for themselves first. However, I also hope we continue to make room for romances like this one. Many of us come to romance looking for escape, and there is real comfort in that, but books like His Awful Grace remind us that romance can also invite us to grow. They deepen our compassion, challenge our assumptions, and send us back to the world seeing it more clearly.
This book releases on July 28th. 💛 I want to thank the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. 💛
At times, it feels unimaginable that Ellen and Mark could ever reconcile. That is precisely the point. Knight never asks the reader to overlook the damage that has been done. Instead, she patiently builds two fully realized people. Their failures and grief make their journey toward one another feel deeply earned.
As a woman and a mother, my heart broke for Ellen, and I suspect hers is a journey that will stay with me. Through Ellen’s work in London, Knight also accomplishes something remarkable. She invites us to consider the history of women’s health and maternal care, along with the importance of bodily autonomy. Historical fiction lets us examine the present through the lens of the past, and this novel sharpened my understanding of conversations that remain painfully relevant today. For those who believe we have come a long way, this story is a reminder that we still have a long way to go.
When I finished the novel, I was left with something unexpectedly hopeful. Let me state explicitly that this love story is worth the journey. It is a testament to enduring loyalty and the weight of vows. More than anything, it celebrates the extraordinary resilience of people who choose one another again and again.
Readers should check the content warnings and care for themselves first. However, I also hope we continue to make room for romances like this one. Many of us come to romance looking for escape, and there is real comfort in that, but books like His Awful Grace remind us that romance can also invite us to grow. They deepen our compassion, challenge our assumptions, and send us back to the world seeing it more clearly.
This book releases on July 28th. 💛 I want to thank the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. 💛
August 5, 2026
SPOILERS AHEAD:
I give this an emotional, resplendent 5 stars. Anne Knight understands the psychology of her characters well and crafts a gorgeous second chance romance.
I received an ARC of this book, but I wasn’t able to finish reading it before it released because I was pregnant when I signed up for the ARC, and miscarried shortly thereafter.
My circumstances are unusual, but I still had a lot of sadness. This book helped me to work through many of my complicated feelings.
Ellen feels so real and dynamic. Her rage, her heartbreak, her vulnerability…it all feels lived. I feel like this is a woman I know and admire.
Mark was difficult to like at first, but that’s the beauty of Knight’s work. He realizes his foolishness and she doesn’t shield him from it.
Therein lies the brilliance of this novel. No one is shielded from the realities of premature birth and infant death, and so at times, it is uncomfortable. It is so valuable for shedding light on the reality of people experiencing those moments and letting readers see it up close. It is valuable for letting the characters sit in sorrow. I know I sat in it with them.
I loved seeing them turn back to each other and thought the arc was very authentic. I really liked that she didn’t write some other reason for them to part in the beginning, though I admit I thought that Ellen’s parents should have made a more concrete threat to her work before she asked to move back in with Mark. Even so, it worked.
Mark realizing his grief gutted me in the most beautiful way. I really appreciate that as so often, we seem to forget that fathers are experiencing this grief too. I especially loved how Ellen didn’t decide that she and she alone had lost Constance, even though that was his opinion in the beginning.
For all her impulsive, angry outbursts, she is a wise woman.
This is a great novel. One I was happy and sad to see end. I think it is one that people will talk about for years to come. A modern classic of the genre.
I give this an emotional, resplendent 5 stars. Anne Knight understands the psychology of her characters well and crafts a gorgeous second chance romance.
I received an ARC of this book, but I wasn’t able to finish reading it before it released because I was pregnant when I signed up for the ARC, and miscarried shortly thereafter.
My circumstances are unusual, but I still had a lot of sadness. This book helped me to work through many of my complicated feelings.
Ellen feels so real and dynamic. Her rage, her heartbreak, her vulnerability…it all feels lived. I feel like this is a woman I know and admire.
Mark was difficult to like at first, but that’s the beauty of Knight’s work. He realizes his foolishness and she doesn’t shield him from it.
Therein lies the brilliance of this novel. No one is shielded from the realities of premature birth and infant death, and so at times, it is uncomfortable. It is so valuable for shedding light on the reality of people experiencing those moments and letting readers see it up close. It is valuable for letting the characters sit in sorrow. I know I sat in it with them.
I loved seeing them turn back to each other and thought the arc was very authentic. I really liked that she didn’t write some other reason for them to part in the beginning, though I admit I thought that Ellen’s parents should have made a more concrete threat to her work before she asked to move back in with Mark. Even so, it worked.
Mark realizing his grief gutted me in the most beautiful way. I really appreciate that as so often, we seem to forget that fathers are experiencing this grief too. I especially loved how Ellen didn’t decide that she and she alone had lost Constance, even though that was his opinion in the beginning.
For all her impulsive, angry outbursts, she is a wise woman.
This is a great novel. One I was happy and sad to see end. I think it is one that people will talk about for years to come. A modern classic of the genre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2026
How do you feel about second chance romance or marriage in crisis?
I personally always have a hard time with both of these tropes because because either someone did something absolutely unforgivable OR they broke up for a really stupid reason, so where are the stakes, actually? Historicals get a little bit of a pass because everyone is stuck in their marriages since divorce is so difficult.
How about, though, an MMC who leaves his wife after 3 months to join the navy, without knowing she was pregnant, and not returning even after she experienced a stillbirth? And continued to stay away for EIGHT YEARS until he comes back to do his duty for his family and have an heir??? I mean, he's got a lot to recover from. And somehow, Anne Knight made me believe that he could and did come back from this by the end of the book.
In Mark's absence, Ellen has become an unacknowledged (officially) expert on premature births and works with a woman doctor in Seven Dials to provide pre- and postnatal care to those with less means. When Mark arrives home, he's shocked at how the wife he remembers as flighty and shallow has transformed into a serious, focused woman - primarily in response to a tragedy that had not materially affected him. As a reader who doesn't consider that she has many triggers, I found the book difficult to read at times. (I cried A LOT reading this one, and the emotions are absolutely gutting, so take care when you pick it up!)
Mark ends up being a pretty perfect husband. And that's my main headscratch about the book: if he is such a great guy now, why was he so, SO awful then? But you know, it's been eight difficult years of growth for him, too, so it wasn't unbelievable. And honestly, I didn't need more angst on top of the other parts of the book, so I really appreciate the care taken with the relationship.
This is one for readers who love an emotional romance and are looking for that cathartic cry-it-out with a guaranteed HEA.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
I personally always have a hard time with both of these tropes because because either someone did something absolutely unforgivable OR they broke up for a really stupid reason, so where are the stakes, actually? Historicals get a little bit of a pass because everyone is stuck in their marriages since divorce is so difficult.
How about, though, an MMC who leaves his wife after 3 months to join the navy, without knowing she was pregnant, and not returning even after she experienced a stillbirth? And continued to stay away for EIGHT YEARS until he comes back to do his duty for his family and have an heir??? I mean, he's got a lot to recover from. And somehow, Anne Knight made me believe that he could and did come back from this by the end of the book.
In Mark's absence, Ellen has become an unacknowledged (officially) expert on premature births and works with a woman doctor in Seven Dials to provide pre- and postnatal care to those with less means. When Mark arrives home, he's shocked at how the wife he remembers as flighty and shallow has transformed into a serious, focused woman - primarily in response to a tragedy that had not materially affected him. As a reader who doesn't consider that she has many triggers, I found the book difficult to read at times. (I cried A LOT reading this one, and the emotions are absolutely gutting, so take care when you pick it up!)
Mark ends up being a pretty perfect husband. And that's my main headscratch about the book: if he is such a great guy now, why was he so, SO awful then? But you know, it's been eight difficult years of growth for him, too, so it wasn't unbelievable. And honestly, I didn't need more angst on top of the other parts of the book, so I really appreciate the care taken with the relationship.
This is one for readers who love an emotional romance and are looking for that cathartic cry-it-out with a guaranteed HEA.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my gosh, the ANGST. Anne Knight has been a favourite of mine for her novellas, and now she's blessed us with her debut novel, which lives up to the hype I gave it in my head. In the content note, she encourages the reader to take breaks if needed, to breathe, and this was the first point at which I knew I was in for an emotionally intense ride. My friends, I was glued to this.
Mark has returned home after 8 years of estrangement from his wife. He remembers her as a giggly, vacuous young woman, and has to hype himself up to dedicate himself to begetting an heir with her. Upon their reunion, he quickly realises she's not the same woman he married, and he has to execute the world's most impressive grovel if he wants any chance at an amicable relationship. Ellen never wanted to see Mark again (with good reason), and finds fulfilment through her work with pre-term infants. When Mark starts actually behaving like a supportive spouse, she finds herself reconnecting with him despite herself.
I love how histrom delivers the heaviest hitting estranged spouse plots. If this was modern day, they'd just break up and move on. Unfortunately it's the 1880's, and they're married and bound together forever, so instead of separating he just joins the navy and ships off to another continent. Ellen and Mark are so full of anguish, you can practically feel the tension leaking from the pages. I was constantly holding my breath, and my chest physically ached at times for their pain. They thoroughly earned their HEA, and emotionally destroyed me in the process. Having held my own babies, Ellen's journey in particular affected me, and was written with effective and thoughtful purpose.
Ellen and Mark's story is a painful, beautiful exploration of reconciliation and redemption. It doesn’t shy away from tough situations or emotions, but dives right in to devastating effect. What a cracker debut!
Mark has returned home after 8 years of estrangement from his wife. He remembers her as a giggly, vacuous young woman, and has to hype himself up to dedicate himself to begetting an heir with her. Upon their reunion, he quickly realises she's not the same woman he married, and he has to execute the world's most impressive grovel if he wants any chance at an amicable relationship. Ellen never wanted to see Mark again (with good reason), and finds fulfilment through her work with pre-term infants. When Mark starts actually behaving like a supportive spouse, she finds herself reconnecting with him despite herself.
I love how histrom delivers the heaviest hitting estranged spouse plots. If this was modern day, they'd just break up and move on. Unfortunately it's the 1880's, and they're married and bound together forever, so instead of separating he just joins the navy and ships off to another continent. Ellen and Mark are so full of anguish, you can practically feel the tension leaking from the pages. I was constantly holding my breath, and my chest physically ached at times for their pain. They thoroughly earned their HEA, and emotionally destroyed me in the process. Having held my own babies, Ellen's journey in particular affected me, and was written with effective and thoughtful purpose.
Ellen and Mark's story is a painful, beautiful exploration of reconciliation and redemption. It doesn’t shy away from tough situations or emotions, but dives right in to devastating effect. What a cracker debut!
August 17, 2026
Ellen and Mark
“His Awful Grace” was written by Anne Knight. This is a very emotional, character driven historical romance. Mark left Ellen and joined the navy shortly after they were married. Bottom line, they married too young. Mark left the navy when his older brother had a life altering accident. It would be up to Mark and his wife to further the barony with an heir. But Ellen had been through a lot more over Mark’s naval years than he ever realized. This is definitely not an easy read because of Ellen’s experiences, this story is not for everyone so read the trope warnings. The story is well written. Mark needed to romance his wife a second time. It was a shock to him that Ellen wasn’t so silly and stupid as he thought. I did like that Mark was so supportive of his wife’s endeavors with premature babies. I was also glad when he finally understood what was behind Ellen’s decisions. Mark tried not to push, he let Ellen make the first moves. Their relationship was definitely on a roller coaster and their happy ever after was hard won. The chemistry between Ellen and Mark did reignite, their passion was quite steamy and open door. Amelia was a great secondary character, she was the doctor in the clinic for the poor where Ellen worked and supported with her own funds. Thanks to the author for explaining Ellen’s illness and sharing her own experiences after the conclusion of this story. An extended epilogue is also offered. I was a bit confused by the title. Mark was the second son of a baron. He was awful to run off and join the navy but the story picked up after his return. After his return he was not awful. Mark gained knowledge and understanding and treated his wife with respect. I don’t think the title quite matches the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“His Awful Grace” was written by Anne Knight. This is a very emotional, character driven historical romance. Mark left Ellen and joined the navy shortly after they were married. Bottom line, they married too young. Mark left the navy when his older brother had a life altering accident. It would be up to Mark and his wife to further the barony with an heir. But Ellen had been through a lot more over Mark’s naval years than he ever realized. This is definitely not an easy read because of Ellen’s experiences, this story is not for everyone so read the trope warnings. The story is well written. Mark needed to romance his wife a second time. It was a shock to him that Ellen wasn’t so silly and stupid as he thought. I did like that Mark was so supportive of his wife’s endeavors with premature babies. I was also glad when he finally understood what was behind Ellen’s decisions. Mark tried not to push, he let Ellen make the first moves. Their relationship was definitely on a roller coaster and their happy ever after was hard won. The chemistry between Ellen and Mark did reignite, their passion was quite steamy and open door. Amelia was a great secondary character, she was the doctor in the clinic for the poor where Ellen worked and supported with her own funds. Thanks to the author for explaining Ellen’s illness and sharing her own experiences after the conclusion of this story. An extended epilogue is also offered. I was a bit confused by the title. Mark was the second son of a baron. He was awful to run off and join the navy but the story picked up after his return. After his return he was not awful. Mark gained knowledge and understanding and treated his wife with respect. I don’t think the title quite matches the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
August 5, 2026
An unexpected entry in the historical romance field. TW for stillbirth, pregnancy loss, pregnancy complications, infant loss.
We meet main characters Mark and Ellen as Mark has just returned from 8 years in the Royal Navy. You see, Mark was a turd, and ditched his young wife to join the navy mere months into their marriage because he thought she was stupid and he had the regrets. But as he was off sailing the high seas, she was left behind to struggle with the eventual stillbirth of their baby with little but a condolence from him.
So you can understand Ellen's rage upon his sudden, unannounced return, right? I sure can! She's built a life sans Mark, and he shows back up on the scene thinking he'll just get her with his heir, as is now his obligation, and she'll be grateful for his reappearance. Or something. But to Mark's great surprise, Ellen is no longer the delicate young girl he left behind. Instead, she's become an expert in premature infant care and donates her time to helping families in the slums give their babies the best chance for survival.
Mark eventually awakens to the fact that he never really knew Ellen, and that maybe running from his marriage was a mistake. Maybe, in fact, Ellen is pretty wonderful, deserving of his respect and support, and maybe he was the loser all along. The author does an excellent job redeeming his initially very unlikeable character.
And Ellen, honestly, is incredible. She's experienced horrible grief and trauma, and instead of hiding behind it she uses it as motivation to help others. In the good times, reveling in the survival of other people's at-risk babies, and in the bad, bearing witness to their loss. And in doing so, reliving her own loss. It was so emotionally resonant, and Ellen's pain was so palpable.
The author clearly did an immense amount of research for this book, and the way she wove historical tidbits into the narrative really worked for me.
Thank you to the author, ARKA Publishing, and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
We meet main characters Mark and Ellen as Mark has just returned from 8 years in the Royal Navy. You see, Mark was a turd, and ditched his young wife to join the navy mere months into their marriage because he thought she was stupid and he had the regrets. But as he was off sailing the high seas, she was left behind to struggle with the eventual stillbirth of their baby with little but a condolence from him.
So you can understand Ellen's rage upon his sudden, unannounced return, right? I sure can! She's built a life sans Mark, and he shows back up on the scene thinking he'll just get her with his heir, as is now his obligation, and she'll be grateful for his reappearance. Or something. But to Mark's great surprise, Ellen is no longer the delicate young girl he left behind. Instead, she's become an expert in premature infant care and donates her time to helping families in the slums give their babies the best chance for survival.
Mark eventually awakens to the fact that he never really knew Ellen, and that maybe running from his marriage was a mistake. Maybe, in fact, Ellen is pretty wonderful, deserving of his respect and support, and maybe he was the loser all along. The author does an excellent job redeeming his initially very unlikeable character.
And Ellen, honestly, is incredible. She's experienced horrible grief and trauma, and instead of hiding behind it she uses it as motivation to help others. In the good times, reveling in the survival of other people's at-risk babies, and in the bad, bearing witness to their loss. And in doing so, reliving her own loss. It was so emotionally resonant, and Ellen's pain was so palpable.
The author clearly did an immense amount of research for this book, and the way she wove historical tidbits into the narrative really worked for me.
Thank you to the author, ARKA Publishing, and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
August 12, 2026
His Awful Grace looks at a subject that we don’t see too often in romance—the death of a child and its effect on a marriage. But this brutal situation happens to a couple who are already in trouble due to immaturity and a lack of communication, and it leads to a yearslong separation. So when Mark returns to Ellen to see if they can make their marriage work, she has to decide if she trusts that he is now a better man—when he’s already keeping secrets from her.
This is, honestly, a challenging read. Mark, our hero, made a lot of hasty decisions in his youth that he realizes he needs to address. And he’s still making mistakes and learning over the course of His Awful Grace, which is something I truly appreciated. Too many times in romance a character adjusts on a dime; they have one moment of revelation and they’re perfect after that. Mark gradually grows and learns (and has a few backsliding moments) to atone for his youthful misjudgments.
Ellen is also a character with issues. She uses her charitable work with new mothers to address her own pain, but she sublimates everything in her life to it and expects others around her to accept that. I found her entrenchment something I wish had been addressed more in the book; she came across as having a stick up certain portions of her anatomy to me, and after a while, that was wearing. She also was a bit too perfect using medical terminology as someone who was largely self-taught.
Knight explores what it was like to have children in a time when babies often died (though I wish she had shown how for many women this was an accepted fact). And she introduced a condition in pregnancy I’d never heard of before and found interesting to learn. His Awful Grace does a grand job showing how two people who are connected by the thinnest of threads can work to form new bonds.
This is, honestly, a challenging read. Mark, our hero, made a lot of hasty decisions in his youth that he realizes he needs to address. And he’s still making mistakes and learning over the course of His Awful Grace, which is something I truly appreciated. Too many times in romance a character adjusts on a dime; they have one moment of revelation and they’re perfect after that. Mark gradually grows and learns (and has a few backsliding moments) to atone for his youthful misjudgments.
Ellen is also a character with issues. She uses her charitable work with new mothers to address her own pain, but she sublimates everything in her life to it and expects others around her to accept that. I found her entrenchment something I wish had been addressed more in the book; she came across as having a stick up certain portions of her anatomy to me, and after a while, that was wearing. She also was a bit too perfect using medical terminology as someone who was largely self-taught.
Knight explores what it was like to have children in a time when babies often died (though I wish she had shown how for many women this was an accepted fact). And she introduced a condition in pregnancy I’d never heard of before and found interesting to learn. His Awful Grace does a grand job showing how two people who are connected by the thinnest of threads can work to form new bonds.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book made me think and feel, on a very personal level, because neither my son, nor me would be here if it wasn’t for the hard work and perseverance of women like Ellen in the past. They laid a solid foundation, and we’ve made progress ever since, but we’ve still got a long way to go.
Ellen & Mark.
She was a girl raised to be the perfect flibbertigibbet to attract a title. He was a baron’s spare, a Greek scholar with big dreams and no funds. They married young – too young – and barely 3 months later he fell out of love with her and fled into the Navy.
When he learned their daughter was stillborn, he was half a world away.
Now, 8 years later, duty called him home. His family needs an heir. He hadn’t expected a warm welcome, but neither did he expect his wife’s transformation into a devoted self-taught neonatal nurse, running around the city’s slums, tirelessly fighting for women and their babies.
She runs on anger, grief and grit. He’s in awe, regretting his impulsive foolishness.
Loosing their daughter was her tragedy, until reality brutally opened his eyes – and yes, this story was brave and unapologetic, not shying away from uncomfortable truths and injustices.
No fluff – well, a little, there are some truly gorgeous tender moments like Christmas, the picture frame and Mark showing up, supporting her every single day – but raw, honest and very emotional. Him grovelling for dear life because he’s fallen in love with his wife all over again, realising just how royally he f’d up. She wary, still very much hurt, struggling to reconcile present and past. Then there are the women and infants who’s lives Ellen touches, the flipside of a devastating end, haughty charity, misinterpretations and impossible choices. And all of it under the shadow of their personal loss, her fear and his struggle to find his own path forward. Their happy ending is one heck of an uphill fight, yet so incredibly rewarding!
This book was simply magnificent and left its mark in more ways than one!
Ellen & Mark.
She was a girl raised to be the perfect flibbertigibbet to attract a title. He was a baron’s spare, a Greek scholar with big dreams and no funds. They married young – too young – and barely 3 months later he fell out of love with her and fled into the Navy.
When he learned their daughter was stillborn, he was half a world away.
Now, 8 years later, duty called him home. His family needs an heir. He hadn’t expected a warm welcome, but neither did he expect his wife’s transformation into a devoted self-taught neonatal nurse, running around the city’s slums, tirelessly fighting for women and their babies.
She runs on anger, grief and grit. He’s in awe, regretting his impulsive foolishness.
Loosing their daughter was her tragedy, until reality brutally opened his eyes – and yes, this story was brave and unapologetic, not shying away from uncomfortable truths and injustices.
No fluff – well, a little, there are some truly gorgeous tender moments like Christmas, the picture frame and Mark showing up, supporting her every single day – but raw, honest and very emotional. Him grovelling for dear life because he’s fallen in love with his wife all over again, realising just how royally he f’d up. She wary, still very much hurt, struggling to reconcile present and past. Then there are the women and infants who’s lives Ellen touches, the flipside of a devastating end, haughty charity, misinterpretations and impossible choices. And all of it under the shadow of their personal loss, her fear and his struggle to find his own path forward. Their happy ending is one heck of an uphill fight, yet so incredibly rewarding!
This book was simply magnificent and left its mark in more ways than one!
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