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House of Oak #3
Clandestine
Fate will draw two people together, traveling centuries if necessary. But even so, predestined lovers still have the choice to walk away . . .
In 2014, Marc Wilde--martial artist and actor--finds his life a mess. His latest film, Croc-nami, is being trashed on social media, sending his acting career into a tailspin (crocodile pun . . . nice). His dating history isn't much better. Romantic love? Not so much. And then there is the tiny matter of blackmail. Someone knows about the time portal in the cellar of Duir Cottage and is threatening to tell the world unless Marc pays up. So yeah . . . life not going so well.
In 1814, Kit Ashton has problems of her own. Her brother has disappeared (again), leaving Kit penniless and forcing her to take up employment as a lady's companion (sigh). Worse, there are French spies in the area, and Kit finds herself pulled into the conspiracy. Add in the sudden appearance of a wind-swept, silver-tongued rogue who makes Kit want to flirt, flirt, flirt . . . it all leaves her one misstep from disaster. Kit is determined to find her brother and return home, all while guarding her heart and (most importantly) keeping her secrets . . . well . . . secret.
This hilarious, quick-paced installment in the Amazon bestselling House of Oak series can easily be read as a stand-alone book.
In 2014, Marc Wilde--martial artist and actor--finds his life a mess. His latest film, Croc-nami, is being trashed on social media, sending his acting career into a tailspin (crocodile pun . . . nice). His dating history isn't much better. Romantic love? Not so much. And then there is the tiny matter of blackmail. Someone knows about the time portal in the cellar of Duir Cottage and is threatening to tell the world unless Marc pays up. So yeah . . . life not going so well.
In 1814, Kit Ashton has problems of her own. Her brother has disappeared (again), leaving Kit penniless and forcing her to take up employment as a lady's companion (sigh). Worse, there are French spies in the area, and Kit finds herself pulled into the conspiracy. Add in the sudden appearance of a wind-swept, silver-tongued rogue who makes Kit want to flirt, flirt, flirt . . . it all leaves her one misstep from disaster. Kit is determined to find her brother and return home, all while guarding her heart and (most importantly) keeping her secrets . . . well . . . secret.
This hilarious, quick-paced installment in the Amazon bestselling House of Oak series can easily be read as a stand-alone book.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2015
307 people are currently reading
675 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
June 10, 2016
I read the first book in this series and now I just cannot help myself. I'm going to read them all. I've been stalking them on Amazon and I've managed to pick them all up free or for .99 cents. :) Yay!
Time travel, intrigue, danger, mystery, romance. This book pretty much has it all. It was a fun ride back and forth in time. I loved the little twisty thing that happened in this book. That was fun and it made me smile. There is always something in these books that makes me smile, if not laugh right out loud. I love when there is witty (dry and sometimes sarcastic) humor in books.
I have the next book waiting for me when I get a few extra minutes.
Content: kissing, mild swearing
Time travel, intrigue, danger, mystery, romance. This book pretty much has it all. It was a fun ride back and forth in time. I loved the little twisty thing that happened in this book. That was fun and it made me smile. There is always something in these books that makes me smile, if not laugh right out loud. I love when there is witty (dry and sometimes sarcastic) humor in books.
I have the next book waiting for me when I get a few extra minutes.
Content: kissing, mild swearing
July 20, 2015
I almost gave up on this one. I liked the first book so well and then felt the second was just "eh" -- just too superficial for my taste. This third book does have a shallow depth to it, but there is a great twist I didn't see coming that actually grabbed me and kept me interested in the story. In the end I enjoyed it better than the second, but not as good as the first. Overall this is by no means great historical fiction. It's pure chick-lit + fantasy/sci-fi - it's fluff. But it is a light, quick, fun read.
January 13, 2024
Loved this one!
I have really enjoyed this series and the unique way Nichole Van spins tales with romance, humor adventure and time travel.
I had really enjoyed Marc in the previous books and was excited to see what his tale would bring.
I loved the interaction and growing relationship between him and Kit.
Nichole Van creates such engaging tales in the Regency era.
But this one was on a whole new level.
The intrigue of the clandestine activities added a layer of mystery to the story.
And that twist!!!!!!
Boy I didn't see that coming!
And I feel like I should have seen it coming.
I rarely get surprised like that.
A delightful romp in Regency England!
And the romance...sigh.
Marc Wild goes down as a new favorite NV hero.
I have really enjoyed this series and the unique way Nichole Van spins tales with romance, humor adventure and time travel.
I had really enjoyed Marc in the previous books and was excited to see what his tale would bring.
I loved the interaction and growing relationship between him and Kit.
Nichole Van creates such engaging tales in the Regency era.
But this one was on a whole new level.
The intrigue of the clandestine activities added a layer of mystery to the story.
And that twist!!!!!!
Boy I didn't see that coming!
And I feel like I should have seen it coming.
I rarely get surprised like that.
A delightful romp in Regency England!
And the romance...sigh.
Marc Wild goes down as a new favorite NV hero.
June 23, 2025
HMM.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I liked this one, but it also isn’t a favorite of the series. The audiobook is great, I loved that. And I’m intrigued by the complexities of the time travel.
I did struggle with the FMC though. She was so adamant about one plot point and refused to see any other side to the story or believe the person directly telling her how they wanted to handle things.
The romance brought some good enemies to lovers swoon and lots of flirting. I liked the interactions between them and progressively enjoyed the moments they had together. I’m curious where this larger plot line will go next!
Overall audience notes:
- Time travel romance
- Language: low
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low-moderate
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I liked this one, but it also isn’t a favorite of the series. The audiobook is great, I loved that. And I’m intrigued by the complexities of the time travel.
I did struggle with the FMC though. She was so adamant about one plot point and refused to see any other side to the story or believe the person directly telling her how they wanted to handle things.
The romance brought some good enemies to lovers swoon and lots of flirting. I liked the interactions between them and progressively enjoyed the moments they had together. I’m curious where this larger plot line will go next!
Overall audience notes:
- Time travel romance
- Language: low
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low-moderate
July 30, 2022
This time travel regency romance was absolutely a riot to read! I laughed out loud more times than I can count and oh mylanta, I feel like I should have seen those plot twists coming but I think my jaw may have hit the floor. So much emotion and the chemistry between Marc and Kit was just *chef's kiss. Love, loving this series.
July 29, 2017
This one was so funny! Marc and Kit had great chemistry. And that twist!
February 23, 2018
I keep thinking these are going to get old. I have such a short attention span for series. Not these books and not anything by this author. Each story is completely new and fresh. Each character is different and has you cheering for them. The love story is always fun with other fun elements thrown in. Pretty excited for the next one! This is clean with some yummy sweet kisses:}
November 28, 2023
The House of Oak series has been absolutely delightful, full of Nichole’s signature witty banter and heart stopping swoon. I had planned to wait and review this entire series in one post since it is an older backlist, but this book deserves its own special spotlight.
Historical fiction has been my preferred genre since I started reading in my teens. I don’t normally gravitate towards contemporary, but when I do read it my favorite parts are the pop culture references. I’ve always been a geeky tv/movie fan and Nichole really outdid herself with the pop culture references in this story. I have to say this time travel romance was the perfect mash up of contemporary and historical. It was like a historical romcom dream!!
When we first met Mark in Intertwine he didn’t strike me as a character that would command the page as a MMC, but boy was I wrong! He catapulted to the top of my favorite Van leading men. Nichole channeled her inner “Van” Damme for this guy and he was totally kick butt! Not only was he a force to be reckoned with, he was absolutely charismatic and had the most amazing sense of humor. I laughed so much at Marc (aka Lord Vader 😂) and Kit. Those two were a match made in literary heaven.
I highly, highly recommend this series…or any series of Nichole’s actually. Also, I listened to the audio for the first three books and I am so happy Shiromi Arserio was chosen to narrate these books. She is spectacular! Shiromi also narrates Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes, another must read/listen to book.
#nicholevan #clandestine #houseofoakseries #timetravelromance #cleanromance #bookstagram
Historical fiction has been my preferred genre since I started reading in my teens. I don’t normally gravitate towards contemporary, but when I do read it my favorite parts are the pop culture references. I’ve always been a geeky tv/movie fan and Nichole really outdid herself with the pop culture references in this story. I have to say this time travel romance was the perfect mash up of contemporary and historical. It was like a historical romcom dream!!
When we first met Mark in Intertwine he didn’t strike me as a character that would command the page as a MMC, but boy was I wrong! He catapulted to the top of my favorite Van leading men. Nichole channeled her inner “Van” Damme for this guy and he was totally kick butt! Not only was he a force to be reckoned with, he was absolutely charismatic and had the most amazing sense of humor. I laughed so much at Marc (aka Lord Vader 😂) and Kit. Those two were a match made in literary heaven.
I highly, highly recommend this series…or any series of Nichole’s actually. Also, I listened to the audio for the first three books and I am so happy Shiromi Arserio was chosen to narrate these books. She is spectacular! Shiromi also narrates Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes, another must read/listen to book.
#nicholevan #clandestine #houseofoakseries #timetravelromance #cleanromance #bookstagram
August 10, 2020
Now this is the Nichole Van I have come to love.
After reading “Intertwined” doubts started forming in my mind, which made me reluctant to read this one. To my relief, I really enjoyed this book. It was soooo good. Marc is witty, his dry humor and nonchalant demeanor had me cackling. I was rolling at his sarcastic conversations with Jedediah.
This book made up in ways “Intertwined” faltered. The timeline jumps were not overdone nor did they leave me confused. I was instantly intrigued and excited to see how things would play out. I couldn’t seem to put this one down. There was drama, action, suspense and just a dash of mystery. The twists and turns were unexpected to say the least. My head was spinning but in the best way possible. I love when books aren’t predictable. Trying to figure out the plot before everything unfolds is so exhilarating. Everything fell into place and made complete sense. There were no loose ends that left me scratching my head.
There was not a moment I felt bored in this story. I was captivated. Marc and Kit’s relationship began with secrets and mistrust but it turned into a beautifully developed romance. Their verbal sparring was refreshing. Their little games and challenges were also adorable.
It was really nice seeing James and Emme as well. Still as love struck as they were in the first book. All in all an exceptional read. Will not hesitate to recommend it. Can’t wait to read about Timothy and Jasmine’s story.
Content: Clean
After reading “Intertwined” doubts started forming in my mind, which made me reluctant to read this one. To my relief, I really enjoyed this book. It was soooo good. Marc is witty, his dry humor and nonchalant demeanor had me cackling. I was rolling at his sarcastic conversations with Jedediah.
This book made up in ways “Intertwined” faltered. The timeline jumps were not overdone nor did they leave me confused. I was instantly intrigued and excited to see how things would play out. I couldn’t seem to put this one down. There was drama, action, suspense and just a dash of mystery. The twists and turns were unexpected to say the least. My head was spinning but in the best way possible. I love when books aren’t predictable. Trying to figure out the plot before everything unfolds is so exhilarating. Everything fell into place and made complete sense. There were no loose ends that left me scratching my head.
There was not a moment I felt bored in this story. I was captivated. Marc and Kit’s relationship began with secrets and mistrust but it turned into a beautifully developed romance. Their verbal sparring was refreshing. Their little games and challenges were also adorable.
It was really nice seeing James and Emme as well. Still as love struck as they were in the first book. All in all an exceptional read. Will not hesitate to recommend it. Can’t wait to read about Timothy and Jasmine’s story.
Content: Clean
July 14, 2022
3.5 stars
October 10, 2020
Free to borrow through the Kindle Lending Library.
Never thought I'd be seeing nerdy Star Wars jokes in a book like this, but it makes sense in the end. A few typos in the Kindle version. A thoroughly charming addition to the series.
Never thought I'd be seeing nerdy Star Wars jokes in a book like this, but it makes sense in the end. A few typos in the Kindle version. A thoroughly charming addition to the series.
December 10, 2018
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
Oh, I love these House of Oak books! The characters are always so much fun to read and I don't even mind the time travel aspect, something I usually have issues with. In fact, I like it. The author uses it in a really fun way.
Marc is an actor. A B-list actor right now, but he has hopes of being in better movies in the future. That is until his most recent movie, Croc-nami, was panned by a huge social media lady. So now he probably won't get much more than he already has. Which is a bit depressing as he is really trying. That and his love life is not so good. He doesn't really understand how to have that lasting love with someone. He thinks he is just not cut out for it. So the same day he sees his newest movie being panned, he has a bad run-in with one of his exes, and he gets a letter from someone blackmailing him! They claim to know about the time portal in Duir Cottage and will reveal it to the world unless Marc pays up. It is really not a very good day for Marc.
Kit is in 1814. She is a lady's companion after her brother runs away and leaves her penniless and trying to find a way to survive. Plus find him so he can come back home and take his rightful place with her. Because she needs him. He is all Kit has and she is not going to lose him and everything she has ever known too.
When Marc gets sent back in time through the portal accidentally he is not really sure what to do. At least his sister had told him her stories of the past and he knows of a few people that might help him out if he can get to them. He runs into Kit pretty much right away and these two were amazing!! I loved them together so so much. This story is so much fun to read! Kit and Marc hit it off, but they both have secrets. Marc that he is from the future and who knows what Kit's is. They have a rough go of it at times because they don't trust the other with their secrets, but Marc knows his is a doozy and most people wouldn't believe him, but eventually he gets to the point where he likes Kit so much he is willing to risk it. He is willing to tell her and see what happens. He can't stay in the past no matter how much he might come to care for Kit. He just can't. His whole life is in the future and he is not really cut out for this formal past life.
When Kit's secrets were finally revealed I loved them so so much! They both have some hard choices facing them, how can they have a relationship through time? And what of Kit's secrets that might ruin everything? It was a lot of fun. I loved the back and forth between these two. They are so quick and funny and it was great watching them fall for each other. I can't wait to read more from this series, especially the next book with Viscount Linwood!
Oh, I love these House of Oak books! The characters are always so much fun to read and I don't even mind the time travel aspect, something I usually have issues with. In fact, I like it. The author uses it in a really fun way.
Marc is an actor. A B-list actor right now, but he has hopes of being in better movies in the future. That is until his most recent movie, Croc-nami, was panned by a huge social media lady. So now he probably won't get much more than he already has. Which is a bit depressing as he is really trying. That and his love life is not so good. He doesn't really understand how to have that lasting love with someone. He thinks he is just not cut out for it. So the same day he sees his newest movie being panned, he has a bad run-in with one of his exes, and he gets a letter from someone blackmailing him! They claim to know about the time portal in Duir Cottage and will reveal it to the world unless Marc pays up. It is really not a very good day for Marc.
Kit is in 1814. She is a lady's companion after her brother runs away and leaves her penniless and trying to find a way to survive. Plus find him so he can come back home and take his rightful place with her. Because she needs him. He is all Kit has and she is not going to lose him and everything she has ever known too.
When Marc gets sent back in time through the portal accidentally he is not really sure what to do. At least his sister had told him her stories of the past and he knows of a few people that might help him out if he can get to them. He runs into Kit pretty much right away and these two were amazing!! I loved them together so so much. This story is so much fun to read! Kit and Marc hit it off, but they both have secrets. Marc that he is from the future and who knows what Kit's is. They have a rough go of it at times because they don't trust the other with their secrets, but Marc knows his is a doozy and most people wouldn't believe him, but eventually he gets to the point where he likes Kit so much he is willing to risk it. He is willing to tell her and see what happens. He can't stay in the past no matter how much he might come to care for Kit. He just can't. His whole life is in the future and he is not really cut out for this formal past life.
When Kit's secrets were finally revealed I loved them so so much! They both have some hard choices facing them, how can they have a relationship through time? And what of Kit's secrets that might ruin everything? It was a lot of fun. I loved the back and forth between these two. They are so quick and funny and it was great watching them fall for each other. I can't wait to read more from this series, especially the next book with Viscount Linwood!
May 31, 2018
Big smile on my face while reviewing his one. And suppressed giggles. This is the 3rd book in the House of Oak series by this author, and it was my favorite so far. I’ve loved them all, but this had some very laugh out loud (true LOLs) moments, even with people nearby me. Yet it’s not a slapstick silly romantic comedy with no depth or angst to it. It still has the clean sizzle and passion and emotion that I adore in Van’s books. Still, this one had some seriously funny dialogue and scenes that are just snort-laugh worthy (no matter how good you are at stifling your emotions).
This is Marc’s story (Emme’s brother from book 1). He is your normal 2014 type of guy. Bronco football fanatic fan, stunt man and actor for his day job, handsome, funny. And not the type to ever get strung up by a relationship. He likes women, but he’s never felt serious about one. Doesn’t think it’s in his genetic makeup. But when he starts receiving blackmail notes from someone who knows about the portal to the past in his basement, and then kidnapped back through that same portal to 1814, life gets seriously weird for him. He meets Kit, a lady’s paid companion, and is drawn in by her vivacious zest and strength. He never knew women from the past could be that way.
I won’t say anymore about this story because the surprising twists and turns have to be experienced first hand to be the most delicious. I won’t lick your drumstick and then give it to you (nasty). You’re welcome. But I will say that Marc and Kit were hilarious. They’re my favorite couple so far (although I hate to play favorites because every book has been super yummy). But the chemistry between these two, Marc’s play on Star Wars names, and other hilarious traits just made these two spectacular. There is intrigue and mystery, dashing heroes, heart-tugging angst, sizzling kisses, runaway horses, snort-laugh worthy moments, and family drama. All perfect for a delicious romance stew to savor. Nichole Van’s my new author-crush. She seriously hits all the right funny and sizzle bones in my body with her awesome stories. My only regret is: Why in the heck did it take me so long to find her books…and what will I do when I finish all she’s written? I guess I’ll reread them. End with another big smile on my face.
This is Marc’s story (Emme’s brother from book 1). He is your normal 2014 type of guy. Bronco football fanatic fan, stunt man and actor for his day job, handsome, funny. And not the type to ever get strung up by a relationship. He likes women, but he’s never felt serious about one. Doesn’t think it’s in his genetic makeup. But when he starts receiving blackmail notes from someone who knows about the portal to the past in his basement, and then kidnapped back through that same portal to 1814, life gets seriously weird for him. He meets Kit, a lady’s paid companion, and is drawn in by her vivacious zest and strength. He never knew women from the past could be that way.
I won’t say anymore about this story because the surprising twists and turns have to be experienced first hand to be the most delicious. I won’t lick your drumstick and then give it to you (nasty). You’re welcome. But I will say that Marc and Kit were hilarious. They’re my favorite couple so far (although I hate to play favorites because every book has been super yummy). But the chemistry between these two, Marc’s play on Star Wars names, and other hilarious traits just made these two spectacular. There is intrigue and mystery, dashing heroes, heart-tugging angst, sizzling kisses, runaway horses, snort-laugh worthy moments, and family drama. All perfect for a delicious romance stew to savor. Nichole Van’s my new author-crush. She seriously hits all the right funny and sizzle bones in my body with her awesome stories. My only regret is: Why in the heck did it take me so long to find her books…and what will I do when I finish all she’s written? I guess I’ll reread them. End with another big smile on my face.
May 24, 2019
Another fun book by Nichole Van. It seems I say that about every book in this series.
This one is about Kit Ashton, acting as a companion to an elderly lady while trying to find her brother Daniel, who seems to be getting himself in a bit of trouble. It’s also about Marc Wilde, Emme's brother from Intertwine. Marc will make his acquaintance with Arthur Knight, who knows him as Emme's actor brother, staying with him as he tries to figure out why the universe wants him here, then get right back.
Clandestine is the 3rd book in her House of Oak series. It took me three books to realize what the series title meant. In the first book a huge oak with legends and superstitions attach to it was hit by lightening outside Duir Cottage, the basement of which contains a portal that brought Emme to 1812. Duir is the Celt word for oak, and ancient oaks are said to be portals to the netherworld. So now, mystery solved.. at least for me.
Book one had Star Trek references. Book three had Star Wars references, and of course no one in 1814 had a clue as to the significance. Marc Wilde, who literally fell in time 200 years, had to come up with a fake name and title. So he became Lord Vader. Another character was Jedediah Knight, with the middle initial of I. Jed I. Knight. So funny. Quoting from Princess Bride, A Few Good Men and Forrest Gump just tickled me.
Complicated but unique and entertaining plot and twists throughout, again highlighting Ms. Van’s ability with words.
Two negatives:
1) Each successive book has an increasing number of “expletives”. Many people would think nothing of damn or hell, considering them mild oaths. But I personally don’t consider them necessary at any time when used as swear words.
2) Although there was nothing spelled out that anyone slept with anyone, or got “too” physical, something could be implied when an engaged couple went to Hawaii together. I just wish they had been married before they went.
All in all a very good book.
This one is about Kit Ashton, acting as a companion to an elderly lady while trying to find her brother Daniel, who seems to be getting himself in a bit of trouble. It’s also about Marc Wilde, Emme's brother from Intertwine. Marc will make his acquaintance with Arthur Knight, who knows him as Emme's actor brother, staying with him as he tries to figure out why the universe wants him here, then get right back.
Clandestine is the 3rd book in her House of Oak series. It took me three books to realize what the series title meant. In the first book a huge oak with legends and superstitions attach to it was hit by lightening outside Duir Cottage, the basement of which contains a portal that brought Emme to 1812. Duir is the Celt word for oak, and ancient oaks are said to be portals to the netherworld. So now, mystery solved.. at least for me.
Book one had Star Trek references. Book three had Star Wars references, and of course no one in 1814 had a clue as to the significance. Marc Wilde, who literally fell in time 200 years, had to come up with a fake name and title. So he became Lord Vader. Another character was Jedediah Knight, with the middle initial of I. Jed I. Knight. So funny. Quoting from Princess Bride, A Few Good Men and Forrest Gump just tickled me.
Complicated but unique and entertaining plot and twists throughout, again highlighting Ms. Van’s ability with words.
Two negatives:
1) Each successive book has an increasing number of “expletives”. Many people would think nothing of damn or hell, considering them mild oaths. But I personally don’t consider them necessary at any time when used as swear words.
2) Although there was nothing spelled out that anyone slept with anyone, or got “too” physical, something could be implied when an engaged couple went to Hawaii together. I just wish they had been married before they went.
All in all a very good book.
May 25, 2024
So each one of these I like a little bit more? Like once I’ve accepted the premise I just am kind of going with it now. This book is quite delightful. Shoulder angels, much? Marc is a little too suave for my perfect leading man, but all of the jokes around his B-movie career are genuinely hilarious. The reveal actually surprised me!
June 11, 2017
3.5 stars for this installment in the House of Oak series.
Spoler****I love that both the main characters came from the future to find each other! When they started quoting "The Princess Bride" I about lost it!
I laughed out loud & found myself sighing right along with Kit!
Spoler****I love that both the main characters came from the future to find each other! When they started quoting "The Princess Bride" I about lost it!
I laughed out loud & found myself sighing right along with Kit!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2021
Dude! I loved Marc and Kit!!! The plot twist is amazing as I didn’t even suspect! Loved it!
September 10, 2025
I’ll be honest. I didn’t expect to love this one. But Nichole Van manages to convince me every time. And once again, she threw some twists in that blew me away. Loved it!!
June 1, 2015
So sad that I consumed it so fast!
It's like receiving a large plate of freshly baked cookies, you know--the kind only your mum can produce, and eating them all without noticing how fast you ate them... Of course I had to even afterwards read the extras at the end. I have to say first off that I think Linwood would make a great main character due to his demeanor and I personally would love be one of the first to ruffle his feathers lol. I've met a Duke in England and he would not even shake my hand as I'm such an inconsequential, regardless of connections etc. Linwood's eyes sound cold but as Van says in the book, he doesn't fight like a wus! Haha... Anyhow back to the review, I love the main character, Kit the protagonist in the story as she works things out aloud but mostly only in her head by a means of weighing them. I don't wish to give too much away but the characters she uses in her head are laugh out loud funny! I found myself laughing out loud through the entire book and then chasing my husband around reading him the highlighted funny bits as he is normally too hyper to sit down & read. (though how he can play Minecraft for hours is beyond me!!?) I also adored her love interest Marcus Wilde. What I did not get however is a strong sense of their attractions like in the other two books. They felt more like friends, though I can't put my finger on why? They had much in common? There wasn't quite the steam this time--for me anyway. It's entirely possible I'm reading too many other slightly smutty regencies & dreadfuls and the problem lies with me?? However, with that said this is still an awesome book and I would read it again just like the others. I would recommend it to all of my siblings, friends and my auntie as well. Anyone in this time period old enough for Star Wars references would adore this book! Well done! And of course I can't wait for more! <3
It's like receiving a large plate of freshly baked cookies, you know--the kind only your mum can produce, and eating them all without noticing how fast you ate them... Of course I had to even afterwards read the extras at the end. I have to say first off that I think Linwood would make a great main character due to his demeanor and I personally would love be one of the first to ruffle his feathers lol. I've met a Duke in England and he would not even shake my hand as I'm such an inconsequential, regardless of connections etc. Linwood's eyes sound cold but as Van says in the book, he doesn't fight like a wus! Haha... Anyhow back to the review, I love the main character, Kit the protagonist in the story as she works things out aloud but mostly only in her head by a means of weighing them. I don't wish to give too much away but the characters she uses in her head are laugh out loud funny! I found myself laughing out loud through the entire book and then chasing my husband around reading him the highlighted funny bits as he is normally too hyper to sit down & read. (though how he can play Minecraft for hours is beyond me!!?) I also adored her love interest Marcus Wilde. What I did not get however is a strong sense of their attractions like in the other two books. They felt more like friends, though I can't put my finger on why? They had much in common? There wasn't quite the steam this time--for me anyway. It's entirely possible I'm reading too many other slightly smutty regencies & dreadfuls and the problem lies with me?? However, with that said this is still an awesome book and I would read it again just like the others. I would recommend it to all of my siblings, friends and my auntie as well. Anyone in this time period old enough for Star Wars references would adore this book! Well done! And of course I can't wait for more! <3
May 10, 2017
Marc Wilde is trying to build his acting career, and if it means starring in low budget B movies that highlight his martial arts expertise, than so be it. But when he gets a mysterious blackmail note that threatens to reveal the secret time portal in the Duer Cottage, he goes there. But when he arrives, he ends up being attacked and falling through the portal, landing himself in 1814.
Stuck in the wrong century, he immediately seeks help from Arthur, the brother of his sister's husband. While staying with him, he meets Kit, a woman who has a secret of her own, and their secrets may just be intertwined. And Marc, who never lets his guard down, may have finally found the perfect girl for him, but in the wrong century.
Such a fun addition to the series, and I just loved finally getting to know Emme's brother, Marc. And I love who Kit turned out to really be. Great clean romance.
Stuck in the wrong century, he immediately seeks help from Arthur, the brother of his sister's husband. While staying with him, he meets Kit, a woman who has a secret of her own, and their secrets may just be intertwined. And Marc, who never lets his guard down, may have finally found the perfect girl for him, but in the wrong century.
Such a fun addition to the series, and I just loved finally getting to know Emme's brother, Marc. And I love who Kit turned out to really be. Great clean romance.
September 6, 2015
Seriously? I love James and Emme, I adore Georgi and Seb, but Marc and Kit? #Swoon! This book is probably the best of the series so far! And the twist? Did not see that coming. Nichole Van is not only a talented photographer. The woman can write! I'm once again blown away by the characters, the plot, the romance which has a way of being intense and steamy but still being clean. And the Star Wars/Princess Bride references? Perfect for a nerd like me!
Word on the street is the next book is Linwood/Jasmine and let me tell you, I have a feeling Linwood will be my favorite. I've been wanting his story since the end of book 2. There's more to him than meets the eye and I can't wait to see Jasmine flip him on his head.
Word on the street is the next book is Linwood/Jasmine and let me tell you, I have a feeling Linwood will be my favorite. I've been wanting his story since the end of book 2. There's more to him than meets the eye and I can't wait to see Jasmine flip him on his head.
September 10, 2025
Nichole Van hit another one out of the park. This is the 3rd in the House of Oak series. It could technically be read as a standalone book, but it will be enjoyed much more if it is read in order.
This one has a bit of a political aspect to it. Those aren't my favorite storylines, but Nichole Van's writing pulled me in to the plot of this one.
The pop culture references here are top notch! I laughed out loud numerous times. It's great!
Again I was so happy with the audiobook narrator. After listening to her read this third book, she's becoming like a familiar friend right along with the characters in the book. Highly recommend!
This one has a bit of a political aspect to it. Those aren't my favorite storylines, but Nichole Van's writing pulled me in to the plot of this one.
The pop culture references here are top notch! I laughed out loud numerous times. It's great!
Again I was so happy with the audiobook narrator. After listening to her read this third book, she's becoming like a familiar friend right along with the characters in the book. Highly recommend!
July 12, 2025
4th reading
This one is a tiny bit cheesy, but I think that’s why I love it so much! I laugh out loud the most in this one.
3rd reading. ❤️
The twist in this book is probably my favorite plot twist ever.
________
Confidence like hers was never bestowed. It had to be worked at and fought for and won.
“A person doesn’t become as self-assured as you are without some opposition. Something burnished and buffed you. Polished you gleaming bright.”
This one is a tiny bit cheesy, but I think that’s why I love it so much! I laugh out loud the most in this one.
3rd reading. ❤️
The twist in this book is probably my favorite plot twist ever.
________
Confidence like hers was never bestowed. It had to be worked at and fought for and won.
“A person doesn’t become as self-assured as you are without some opposition. Something burnished and buffed you. Polished you gleaming bright.”
August 14, 2019
I enjoyed this much more than its predecessor. Part of what makes these books so enjoyable is seeing someone from one environment plunked down into something totally unfamiliar and see them try to cope; we have a return to that in this book, and Marc was particularly fun, with his martial arts background and sense of humor (the name he chose for himself! I love that Van went there). Kit was also a fun character, and they played off each other well.
April 1, 2016
Maybe 4.25?
This one was definitely funnier than the other two! :D
This one was definitely funnier than the other two! :D
May 10, 2018
Hilarious
Yes, I laughed out loud several times in this story. This is a fun romance/mystery time travel and well worth reading!
Yes, I laughed out loud several times in this story. This is a fun romance/mystery time travel and well worth reading!
January 30, 2024
I love how each of these books are time traveling books between 1814 and 2014 but each one is unique and entertaining. The plot twists and reveals in all the books are mind blowing. Every mystery in every book so far has kept me at the edge of my seat. I love how I never know how her books are going to end. It’s stressful but in a good way! Even if they don’t end how I thought it would, they always end in the best HEA. This book was the funniest one so far. I laughed out loud more times than I can count. I love how both Kit and Marc can speak flirt so well. They were the perfect match and their chemistry was perfect. I love how each book fits into each other. Gosh Nichole Van writes the swooniest romances. She is the queen of fated lovers. Loved this one.
SPOILERS and book notes:
London 1828 was prologue to 2014. Marc is a martial arts actor?? Haha but the portal links 1814 to 2014. The list of those that knew about the portal are short. Emme, James, Jasmin, (2014) Georgiana, Seb,(1814) Arthur knight(James older brother). But he got blackmail bc someone else knew about it!! Mark is in Australia shooting a film in the ocean worried about box jellyfish. 1814 Kit Ashton. I love her shoulder angels that she talks to in her head. It’s a hilarious way to have an inner voice. She is 30 and tall 5’10”. The napoleonic wars or what the Americans call the war of 1812 are happening right now. And Marc’s sister Emme told people he was a spy while she was here to get a lord of her back. So people think he is a spy but not sure which side he is on. Ok I am laughing so hard. Marc chose Vader as his last name in 1814. And he is pretending to be a lord. So he is Lord Vader. Bahahsh and then the creep of a second cousin to Arthur and James is name is Jedediah I. Knight. So Lord Vader confronts Jed I. Knight. And that’s what he calls him and I’m dead. “Take a care Lord Vader I am a force to be reckoned with.” “Don’t worry Mr Jed I Knight I never underestimate the power of the force.” How is Nichole Van so witty???? I am dead. I love that the love of bacon can traverse two hundred years. Both Marc and Kit love bacon. They play a game where the first to laugh has to tell a secret. And every sentence someone says at breakfast ends with “due to my festuring rash” . And I am dying of laughter. This is definitely the funniest of the books. They both speak the language of “flirt” so well. They are both excellent at keeping secrets too. Neither know if what each other says is true or not. Aww Daniel is the one that kidnapped Marc to the 19th century!! And maybe blackmailed? Daniel is kits brother that she has been looking for and is the reason she is working as a ladies maid! So good. I love that Marc gave her confidence in her body. That he loved her for her. And he knows that is what he is doing. It’s hard to be tall and curvy as a woman. To feel like you are larger than men. Trust me I know. Kit and Marc found out they were both from 2014 bc Kit quoted this line from the princess bride: “you mock my pain” and then Marc responds “life is pain. Anyone who tells you different is selling something.” Then she quotes “as you wish” and “inconceivable” and then Marc quotes forest gump. “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” And they stare dumb founded at each other!!! awwwwww!!!! I love it so much!!!!!!! No wonder neither of them thought they could be together!! Even after the swooniest of kisses!!! Oh plot twist! Kit ends up being the author of the person who wrote the bad review that ruined Marc wildes career! But I love how quickly Marc forgave her and how quick she was to ask for forgiveness and talk it out. It’s cool that both of these people that hid behind personas in the 21 century were both taken to 1814 stripped to just the barest of themselves to get to know one another. And then fall in love. And THEN find out who they were in real life. So interesting! Fated lovers for sure. I love this. Daniel her brother ends up staying and being the first lord of witmer manor and he changed the will so that females can inherit the house so in 2014 she can own it!! And now she gets to chase Mark in 2014!!! Thank goodness. Mark is amazing. And kits grand gesture was amazing. A Darth Vader guy showing up to his house. Her persona that critiques movies making a nice review of his movie! So good. And they are fiancés now and she has his family to love her unconditionally now too.
SPOILERS and book notes:
London 1828 was prologue to 2014. Marc is a martial arts actor?? Haha but the portal links 1814 to 2014. The list of those that knew about the portal are short. Emme, James, Jasmin, (2014) Georgiana, Seb,(1814) Arthur knight(James older brother). But he got blackmail bc someone else knew about it!! Mark is in Australia shooting a film in the ocean worried about box jellyfish. 1814 Kit Ashton. I love her shoulder angels that she talks to in her head. It’s a hilarious way to have an inner voice. She is 30 and tall 5’10”. The napoleonic wars or what the Americans call the war of 1812 are happening right now. And Marc’s sister Emme told people he was a spy while she was here to get a lord of her back. So people think he is a spy but not sure which side he is on. Ok I am laughing so hard. Marc chose Vader as his last name in 1814. And he is pretending to be a lord. So he is Lord Vader. Bahahsh and then the creep of a second cousin to Arthur and James is name is Jedediah I. Knight. So Lord Vader confronts Jed I. Knight. And that’s what he calls him and I’m dead. “Take a care Lord Vader I am a force to be reckoned with.” “Don’t worry Mr Jed I Knight I never underestimate the power of the force.” How is Nichole Van so witty???? I am dead. I love that the love of bacon can traverse two hundred years. Both Marc and Kit love bacon. They play a game where the first to laugh has to tell a secret. And every sentence someone says at breakfast ends with “due to my festuring rash” . And I am dying of laughter. This is definitely the funniest of the books. They both speak the language of “flirt” so well. They are both excellent at keeping secrets too. Neither know if what each other says is true or not. Aww Daniel is the one that kidnapped Marc to the 19th century!! And maybe blackmailed? Daniel is kits brother that she has been looking for and is the reason she is working as a ladies maid! So good. I love that Marc gave her confidence in her body. That he loved her for her. And he knows that is what he is doing. It’s hard to be tall and curvy as a woman. To feel like you are larger than men. Trust me I know. Kit and Marc found out they were both from 2014 bc Kit quoted this line from the princess bride: “you mock my pain” and then Marc responds “life is pain. Anyone who tells you different is selling something.” Then she quotes “as you wish” and “inconceivable” and then Marc quotes forest gump. “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” And they stare dumb founded at each other!!! awwwwww!!!! I love it so much!!!!!!! No wonder neither of them thought they could be together!! Even after the swooniest of kisses!!! Oh plot twist! Kit ends up being the author of the person who wrote the bad review that ruined Marc wildes career! But I love how quickly Marc forgave her and how quick she was to ask for forgiveness and talk it out. It’s cool that both of these people that hid behind personas in the 21 century were both taken to 1814 stripped to just the barest of themselves to get to know one another. And then fall in love. And THEN find out who they were in real life. So interesting! Fated lovers for sure. I love this. Daniel her brother ends up staying and being the first lord of witmer manor and he changed the will so that females can inherit the house so in 2014 she can own it!! And now she gets to chase Mark in 2014!!! Thank goodness. Mark is amazing. And kits grand gesture was amazing. A Darth Vader guy showing up to his house. Her persona that critiques movies making a nice review of his movie! So good. And they are fiancés now and she has his family to love her unconditionally now too.
February 7, 2022
Not so good
Spoiler, don't read further. There was good and not so good moments. Their love didn't convinced me. I stopped reading some % before the end.
I didn't like Kit. That's my problem. Marc saving Ruby from the burning house, inhibition of smoke, couldn't breathe. She sees him coming out with relive...But in the meantime she was comforting Marianne and the baby. Not extremely worried if Marc is in the burning house it looks to me. Not trying to go in to find him. Maybe the baby was scared! Yes, she saw him coming out and not seem to notice his condition. In this same condition he saved her life from J. She still can't see how bad he looks. He explained why he took her to the portal but no she was still angry! While J was chasing them to kill them he was supposed to ask her if she wants to come or stay. Woman borne in 21 century would have known that the fire could have damage his lungs permanently. Finally she noticed that his wrist is sprained and frantically want to ice it.....
Her blog, making fun of him as an actor? That's another minus. Admitted that she wrote the publication about him and asked in 2 minutes flat to be forgiven. Yes, she will be forgiven with a kiss! Eh, was just his career, not something important!
How many times she said, if I lose Daniel I have nobody. Until the last pages, she couldn't consider him as somebody. I understand the dilemma, two worlds, either world you choose, you win some you lose some. But still, was hurtful.
Ok, Toyota Corolla, princess Pepsy and Lord Klinex were funny.
Spoiler, don't read further. There was good and not so good moments. Their love didn't convinced me. I stopped reading some % before the end.
I didn't like Kit. That's my problem. Marc saving Ruby from the burning house, inhibition of smoke, couldn't breathe. She sees him coming out with relive...But in the meantime she was comforting Marianne and the baby. Not extremely worried if Marc is in the burning house it looks to me. Not trying to go in to find him. Maybe the baby was scared! Yes, she saw him coming out and not seem to notice his condition. In this same condition he saved her life from J. She still can't see how bad he looks. He explained why he took her to the portal but no she was still angry! While J was chasing them to kill them he was supposed to ask her if she wants to come or stay. Woman borne in 21 century would have known that the fire could have damage his lungs permanently. Finally she noticed that his wrist is sprained and frantically want to ice it.....
Her blog, making fun of him as an actor? That's another minus. Admitted that she wrote the publication about him and asked in 2 minutes flat to be forgiven. Yes, she will be forgiven with a kiss! Eh, was just his career, not something important!
How many times she said, if I lose Daniel I have nobody. Until the last pages, she couldn't consider him as somebody. I understand the dilemma, two worlds, either world you choose, you win some you lose some. But still, was hurtful.
Ok, Toyota Corolla, princess Pepsy and Lord Klinex were funny.
March 6, 2017
I struggled to get into this book at first not because it was slow or nothing was happening, it just felt kind of dull. There wasn't really anything that grabbed my attention and I found myself stopping and doing other things before going back to it. I think it's just the writing style for this author or maybe it's how she writes the time period because I tend to be fine with regency era but I tend to get a little bored at times. It's not that long of a book but with how many breaks I take in between it feels double of what it actually is. Once the biggest surprise happened though, all bets were off and my interest peaked like no other. I've never seen this done with a time travel book and was not only shocked and surprised but pleased with how it played out. It was very well thought out and executed at just the right time. Everything fell into place and I'm not sure if it was more than once that a hint was dropped because I only spotted one and had assumed it was an error on the author's part. I absolutely loved what she did with this book and felt a complete shift in my mood with reading this. I was even tempted to go back and reread everything up to that point to see if I'd missed more clues with Kit besides the obvious dialogue of it was impossible to start something with Marc thing. I was too anxious in getting the rest of the story though. This would be a bad choice on my part in the end.
Not too long after this revelation in the book, it went downhill further than it had than when I was looking for excuses to take breaks from the book. It seemed like after Daniel re-entered the scene, Kit's worst traits were brought out into the open. It was like a complete different person had taken over. I grew to despise her and was irritated with everything she said and did. After she found her brother, I hated and hate her character, there was no redemption with her for me. She was annoying with her whiny rants, plain selfish in trying to control her brother and his wants and needs, and a childish brat with how she threw tantrums when she didn't get what she wanted and blaming people for everything that went wrong. There was so much anger, bitterness, and superiority inside her. She was ugly on the inside and I don't understand how Marc didn't walk away from her when the real her emerged and stopped playing her character.
*****SPOILERS NEXT TWO PARAGRAPHS*****
She was angry at Daniel for wanting to live his life elsewhere away from her. She was demanding that he come back home and live a miserable life where he couldn't be himself. She expected Marc to do whatever he had to do to get Daniel to back home with her. She blamed Marc for taking her through the portal without asking her when he was saving her life and his. She didn't understand he had no choice and no way of fighting Jed off because he was hurt and weak, he could barely throw her over his shoulder to get them both out of there of alive. Had he not gone looking for her she'd be dead. She refused to believe it was the best choice when he explained why he took her through the portal. She brushed off his confession of how he felt about her like it meant nothing to her when what she wanted was right in front of her all along. She was furious that he made a life or death decision that could have ended up with both of them dead. She placed blame on him for no reason and Marc accepted it. She behaved like she was so wronged when his only concern was her safety. He never held a grudge or any bitterness over her article bashing his movie and talent as an actor. He forgave her for it even though it might have ruined his career, his reputation, and potential upgraded roles in the future because of how badly she trashed all over him. HE. LET. IT .GO. He got over it and didn't hold it against her when he had every right to resent her for it and change his mind about how he felt about her. She got off easy and she thinks she has the right to be upset about something that wasn't even his fault. To top it off, HE went to HER in the end and apologized like he had something to be sorry about. I guess it was better for them to end up dead together, instead of happy and alive right? Her idea of getting him to come to her might have been a nice addition if she'd been doing it to apologize to him for how she behaved and treated him but it seemed more like a gesture at calling a truce and saying "I'm ready to forgive you, come find me" which didn't sit well with me at all. Kit was just one of those girls you hate in real life when you see how she treats her boyfriend and he goes above and beyond for but she doesn't appreciate how good she has it.
Daniel was a character who I find not to be very believable. Sorry, but if you were brought up in a generation of youth that have computers and cell phones as a standard utility, there is NO WAY that a twenty something man is going to be daydreaming about living in the past or just isn't interested in technology. Any kid or teenager who has seen that cell phones and computers are normal for everyone to have isn't going to feel like it's not their thing, it's the way of the world now. Kids, teenagers, and young adults love to see technology advancing not wishing it were simpler times and can't be bothered by the latest invention. If he'd stumbled accidentally across the portal and experienced first hand the difference in life between then and now, I can see him appreciating and adjusting to a simpler life but not when he's grown up in the time he has. It's too unrealistic for someone of his upbringing.
*****END SPOILERS******
I won't be reading their book ever again and regret it terribly because I did love the author's unique take on a time travel book. She brought something else to the table that set it apart form others of its kind but I just can't bring myself to read again because of Kit. She completely ruined everything about this book for me and I won't torture myself by trying to get through this again knowing who she really is when she takes off the mask. So disappointed in this.
Not too long after this revelation in the book, it went downhill further than it had than when I was looking for excuses to take breaks from the book. It seemed like after Daniel re-entered the scene, Kit's worst traits were brought out into the open. It was like a complete different person had taken over. I grew to despise her and was irritated with everything she said and did. After she found her brother, I hated and hate her character, there was no redemption with her for me. She was annoying with her whiny rants, plain selfish in trying to control her brother and his wants and needs, and a childish brat with how she threw tantrums when she didn't get what she wanted and blaming people for everything that went wrong. There was so much anger, bitterness, and superiority inside her. She was ugly on the inside and I don't understand how Marc didn't walk away from her when the real her emerged and stopped playing her character.
*****SPOILERS NEXT TWO PARAGRAPHS*****
She was angry at Daniel for wanting to live his life elsewhere away from her. She was demanding that he come back home and live a miserable life where he couldn't be himself. She expected Marc to do whatever he had to do to get Daniel to back home with her. She blamed Marc for taking her through the portal without asking her when he was saving her life and his. She didn't understand he had no choice and no way of fighting Jed off because he was hurt and weak, he could barely throw her over his shoulder to get them both out of there of alive. Had he not gone looking for her she'd be dead. She refused to believe it was the best choice when he explained why he took her through the portal. She brushed off his confession of how he felt about her like it meant nothing to her when what she wanted was right in front of her all along. She was furious that he made a life or death decision that could have ended up with both of them dead. She placed blame on him for no reason and Marc accepted it. She behaved like she was so wronged when his only concern was her safety. He never held a grudge or any bitterness over her article bashing his movie and talent as an actor. He forgave her for it even though it might have ruined his career, his reputation, and potential upgraded roles in the future because of how badly she trashed all over him. HE. LET. IT .GO. He got over it and didn't hold it against her when he had every right to resent her for it and change his mind about how he felt about her. She got off easy and she thinks she has the right to be upset about something that wasn't even his fault. To top it off, HE went to HER in the end and apologized like he had something to be sorry about. I guess it was better for them to end up dead together, instead of happy and alive right? Her idea of getting him to come to her might have been a nice addition if she'd been doing it to apologize to him for how she behaved and treated him but it seemed more like a gesture at calling a truce and saying "I'm ready to forgive you, come find me" which didn't sit well with me at all. Kit was just one of those girls you hate in real life when you see how she treats her boyfriend and he goes above and beyond for but she doesn't appreciate how good she has it.
Daniel was a character who I find not to be very believable. Sorry, but if you were brought up in a generation of youth that have computers and cell phones as a standard utility, there is NO WAY that a twenty something man is going to be daydreaming about living in the past or just isn't interested in technology. Any kid or teenager who has seen that cell phones and computers are normal for everyone to have isn't going to feel like it's not their thing, it's the way of the world now. Kids, teenagers, and young adults love to see technology advancing not wishing it were simpler times and can't be bothered by the latest invention. If he'd stumbled accidentally across the portal and experienced first hand the difference in life between then and now, I can see him appreciating and adjusting to a simpler life but not when he's grown up in the time he has. It's too unrealistic for someone of his upbringing.
*****END SPOILERS******
I won't be reading their book ever again and regret it terribly because I did love the author's unique take on a time travel book. She brought something else to the table that set it apart form others of its kind but I just can't bring myself to read again because of Kit. She completely ruined everything about this book for me and I won't torture myself by trying to get through this again knowing who she really is when she takes off the mask. So disappointed in this.
May 30, 2018
For the whole first half, I was sure that this would be my least favorite of the series. Nothing was really happening, and the drawn out banter between Marc and Kit felt contrived and overdone. But then we find out that Kit is also from the future—I did NOT see that coming. So finally, at the just-past-halfway point, I was hooked. Even though it still wasn’t my favorite of the series, I thought some of the author’s tactics were pretty brilliant. Like the prologue with the mysterious “mister w,” who we’re led to believe is Marc in the past-future, which would mean that he stayed in the past. When it was revealed that that was actually Daniel, I thought surely the author had messed up. Didn’t Daniel make us believe it was Marc? But I went back to that part and...nope. The author made me think it, but she didn’t mess up! All in all, I have to give the author props. Still hard to make it though the first half, and Marc isn’t going to end up being one of my favorite characters of Van’s, but it was a fun read like all the rest of her books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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