Daniel's True Desire

True Gentlemen #2

by Grace Burrowes

An Honorable Life Daniel Banks is a man of the cloth whose vocation is the last comfort he has left-and even his churchman's collar is beginning to feel like a noose. At the urging of family, Daniel attempts to start his life over as vicar in the sleepy Kentish town of Haddondale, family seat to the earls of Bellefonte. Challenged by Passion Resigned to spinsterhood, Lady Kirsten Haddonfield welcomes the new vicar to stay at her family's home while his is under renovation. Suddenly the handsome visitor has Kirsten rethinking her ideas about love and marriage, but a dreadful secret from Daniel's past may cast a shadow too long for either of them to overcome.

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Regency, Regency Romance, Audiobook

450 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 3, 2015

About the author

Grace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.

It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.

While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")

Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)

To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.

Reviews

[Lady Wesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book. I loved Daniel, the vicar who is almost, but not quite too good to be true. I loved the prickly Lady Kirsten, who is determinedly on the shelf and happy about it. I was enchanted by the little boys whom the vicar, with Kirsten's help, transforms from little hellions to "scholars." Nobody writes believable children better than Grace Burrowes. I enjoyed seeing Nicholas and his family again. And although this book has several characters from Burrowes' other books, it works quite well as a stand-alone.

If you're looking for a sweet, feel-good romance, try Daniel's True Desire.

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

In Daniel’s True Desire, the second in Grace Burrowes’ True Gentlemen series, we travel once again to Haddondale, the village near the estate of Nicholas, Earl Bellfonte. Having told his story in the Lonely Lords series, the author has turned her attention to Nick’s sisters, all of them tall, blonde, forthright and fiercely loving of friends and family, just like their older brother. Even though this novel is loosely related to several other books and there are a number of recurring characters, it’s possible to read it as a standalone - although I’d definitely recommend looking at the family trees on the author’s website and then catching up with some of those earlier stories.

Readers of those will already have met the Haddonfield ladies, the earl himself, and David, Viscount Fairly, whose wife Letty is the sister of the eponymous Daniel - the Reverend Daniel Banks, recently appointed by Nick to the living at Haddondale.

Lady Kirsten Haddonfield is prickly, sharp-tongued and, quite frankly, something of a grouch. She is not looking forward to her impending visit to London for her youngest sister’s come-out, which is bound to stir up gossip concerning certain … irregularities in the family, as well as raking up unpleasant memories of her two broken betrothals.

But beneath the outward grumpiness is a young woman whose faith in life and in herself has been badly shaken, and who cares deeply for those around her. She feels wasted tucked away in Kent, and longs for something to DO, especially given that she has resigned herself to spinsterhood.

As a younger man, Daniel Banks led a fulfilling life, nurtured by a loving father, realising his vocation as a clergyman and being assigned to a good living. But his disastrous marriage a decade before, to a young woman who was completely unsuited both to him and to the life of a country vicar’s wife, has gradually worn him down and he is even finding it hard to enjoy his calling, which is the one thing in his life he feels he has left to him. And worst of all, he has left behind him his five year old nephew, Danny, who, until the spiteful Olivia Banks spilled the beans, believed Daniel to be his father, and whom Daniel had cherished since the boy was given into his care as a baby. Now that Letty is settled with Fairly, she is in a position to provide for the boy, and even though it broke his heart, Daniel believed it best for Danny to return to his mother.

When Daniel and Kirsten meet, there is an instant affinity between them, as though each can sense the other’s carefully hidden discontent. Daniel finds Kirsten’s brutal honesty refreshing and is quickly able to see beneath her surface veneer of prickliness to the caring woman beneath; and Kirsten finds herself taken with the handsome vicar whose competence, sense of humour and quiet aura of compassion cause her to reassess her position when it comes to men and marriage.

But even though Daniel is estranged from Olivia, he is still married and cannot divorce her and occupy any sort of position within the Church. Without any other way of making a living, he could not support Kirsten; and with his wife continuing to threaten to expose the truth about Danny’s parentage, he is facing a life without love or true companionship.

There is a lot to enjoy in this book besides the lovely, bittersweet romance that blossoms between two people who have been knocked about a bit by life. Grace Burrowes excels at writing stories about community, friendship and family; her characters function within the world she has created for them, so they feel as though they have lives of their own that continue even when we are not reading about them. Among the books’ highlights are the focus on the bonds that develop between the group of unruly boys who are brought together under Daniel’s tutelage, and the way the author explores the various kinds of love; between lovers, siblings, parents and children. She skilfully addresses the issue of what is the best thing for a boy in Danny’s situation, and once again writes children that speak and act like real children, and not as precocious moppets whose sole function is to be cute and bring the protagonists together at the end of the story.

Something else I always enjoy about Ms Burrowes’ books is the way in which she writes such strong male friendships. I loved the interactions between Nick, Fairly and Daniel, and the way in which the two lords close ranks around Daniel when he needs their help.

Daniel is a wonderful hero, a warm, compassionate man who has no idea of his own attractiveness or his effect on women - and who is having to live with a poor decision made early in his life. Even though he is struggling with the fact that, were he in any other profession, he would be able to divorce his wife and still make a living, I liked that he doesn’t actually have a crisis of faith and that the author’s solution to his marital issues is, therefore, one I wasn't expecting. The one false note struck in the book (and the reason for the 4.5 rather than 5 stars) is to do with one particular plot point which is too much of a magical “fix” for something which isn’t – in real life – magically fix-able.

Overall, however, Daniel’s True Desire is a sweetly romantic, emotionally satisfying read and one I’m more than happy to recommend.

[Jacqueline J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this one. It was different for an historical romance in that the hero is married when he meets the heroine. The first part of the hero's story plays out in his sister's book so you know going in that the wife is a hateful person. The books skirts the edge of adultery but I managed to believe in the hero's honor. There was some angst although it could have been played up more. In fact I know several other authors who might have made a bigger deal of the angst. GB however chose to focus on the main characters friendship and the hero's job but not in any way that took away from the romance. The ending had to go one of two ways and I was happy with the way it went. A fine book and well worth reading.

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review from 2017

I've given this a B+ for both narration and content at AudioGals, so a solid 4.5 stars.

Daniel’s True Desire is the second book in Grace Burrowes’ True Gentlemen series, although the series title is perhaps a bit of a misnomer as the books are in fact linked by virtue of the fact that the heroines are the sisters of Nicholas Haddonfield, Earl of Bellefonte. Regardless of that, however, I found it to be the strongest of the series when I read it a couple of years back, and I was keen to experience it again in audio format. As is the case with most of Grace Burrowes’ oeuvre, this story features several characters who have appeared in other books, most notably David, Lord Fairly and his wife Letty (Daniel’s sister), Nicholas and his wife Leah, and Daniel himself, who appeared in David’s book, wherein we discovered he was unhappily married to a woman (Olivia) who stole from him and his parish, and who was blackmailing his sister by threatening to expose the fact that the five-year old boy she and Daniel have brought up as their son is, in fact, Letty’s son, the result of a youthful indiscretion.

As this story opens, the Reverend Daniel Banks is travelling to his new living in the village of Haddondale. He is a very troubled man, still reeling from the recent revelations about the deceptions practiced by his wife – who has now disappeared – struggling with his feelings of discontent and guilt over his inability to protect his sister from Olivia’s machinations, and worst of all, heartsick at his parting from his ‘son’, Danny, who, now that her circumstances allow her to properly care for him, has now gone to live with his mother and her new husband. Daniel is at a very low point, dedicated to his calling but feeling somewhat restricted by it, and unable to see a way out of his present difficulties. Olivia may have taken herself off temporarily, but it can surely only be a matter of time before she is back and making more trouble.

Brooding on his problems and delayed by inclement weather, Daniel loses his way and finds himself at the door of one of the village residents rather than the vicarage.  Stopping to ask for assistance, he is confronted by a tall, blonde dynamo of a woman who introduces herself as the earl’s sister, Lady Kirsten Haddonfield.  After plying him with tea and bread and butter, she accompanies him to the vicarage and then, after discovering its state of disrepair, marches him off to dinner with her brother and sister-in-law.

Kirsten Haddonfield is brusque, brutally honest and capable of organising herself and everyone around her with almost military precision. She is also, as Daniel comes to realise, a bit of a grouch, a description with which she doesn’t argue.  At present, her burdens are many; she has taken over the numerous estate duties performed by her sister, Nita, prior to her marriage, and is helping her youngest sister, Della, prepare for her first Season.  The preparations are dredging up unhappy memories and reminding Kirsten of her two broken engagements and the insincere, posturing gentlemen she had believed were genuinely interested in her – and weren’t.  Knowing how cruel society can be, Kirsten is also very worried for Della who, unlike the other Haddonfield siblings is small and dark haired – and is widely believed to be a cuckoo in the nest.   And on top of her responsibilities and other worries, Kirsten knows she is expected to travel to London with the rest of the family for the Season in the spring, and dreads it.  She hates the superficiality of London society and inwardly despairs at the prospect of ending up a subject of pity and gossip because she is still unmarried. She would much rather stay at home in the country where she can be active and useful than sit around in drawing rooms or waste her time dancing at balls.

Daniel and Kirsten are drawn to each other from the start, sensing that here is a kindred spirit, someone to whom life has not always been kind and who has learned to cope with disappointment.  Daniel finds Kirsten’s bluntness refreshing and quickly learns to see through the surface bluster to the truly kind and compassionate woman underneath, while Kirsten is impressed by the handsome young vicar’s aura of quiet confidence and his strong good sense.  Daniel finally discovers what it is to have a true helpmeet, someone to talk to about his day and with whom he can hold an intelligent discussion and exchange of ideas, and Kirsten blossoms as a result of Daniel’s genuine respect and admiration.  Their mutual attraction grows steadily, but of course, there can be no happy ending for them; even if Daniel had the money and influence to obtain a divorce, he could not do so and retain his profession, which is his only means of income and thus supporting a wife.

It’s not a spoiler, given this is a romance, to say that the author does come up with a – quite unusual – way of solving Kirsten and Daniel’s difficulties, but there’s a lot more to enjoy in this story than just the bittersweet romance.  Grace Burrowes’ talent for writing strong male friendships is very much in evidence once again, as Kirsten’s brother, Nicholas, and Daniel’s brother-in-law, David, bring him into the fold and rally round to support him when he really needs them.  Such scenes are always a highlight of any of Ms. Burrowes’ books as she always invests these relationships with a strong sense of liking and mutual respect that is masked by lots of teasing and good-natured banter which make them are a delight to read.  Also delightful is the relationship that Daniel forges with his small group of “rotten boys”, the unruly sons of some of the local gentry who come to “live in” with the vicar while they are receiving an education.  They all come across as living, breathing children rather than precious moppets, and the way she shows the developing bonds between the boys and between the boys and Daniel is simply masterful.

James Langton does a very good job with his portrayals of all the boys, making them sound age-appropriate and giving each of them a distinct sound and personality.  Daniel is every bit as dreamy as he is on the page; dedicated, quietly competent – there’s nothing as sexy as a man who knows what he’s doing! – and possessed of great strength of character and a playful sense of humour.  Nicholas and David are very clearly delineated – Nicholas by means of a drop in pitch and a very hearty tone that suits a man of such large stature, while David’s dialogue is delivered using a jauntier manner and a very slight, aristocratic drawl.  Mr. Langton’s female voices are solid, and the three Haddonfield ladies are easy to tell apart.  He expertly depicts Kirsten’s occasional waspishness and also injects the right emotional notes into her speech without pushing the pitch too high.  The technical aspects of his performance – such as diction and pacing – are excellent, and, as I’ve said before, his affinity for Ms. Burrowes’ sometimes quirky language is a real asset.  It’s a small point, but I love the way he handles the characters’ asides and ‘notes-to-self’, really bringing out the irony and wry humour in them.

I enjoyed Daniel’s True Desire as much in audio as I did in print (possibly more, thanks to the excellent narration) although there is one plot point I’d take issue with, which, while not an uncommon one in historical romance, sees the seemingly unfixable becoming suddenly and magically fixed.  But it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book overall, and I’d certainly recommend this poignant, emotionally satisfying and expertly narrated love story to others.

[Wollstonecrafthomegirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easily my least favorite Burrowes to date. Only just three stars for me. I hate criticizing this woman who is so talented and unique and writes a gazillion books a year (and thank God for that, because - much like chocolate or gin and tonic or cups of tea - I'm not sure how I'd get on without her in my life). But criticize I shall because that's how it goes sometimes. This is too long. It would've benefited from some editing, it was a bit of a slog to get through it. I didn't think the sections taken from the boys' perspectives were very interesting. Although as someone who practiced a bit of family law once upon a time there's an insightful look at attachment issues and childhood unhappiness. But the main problem is a central couple who didn't to any real degree capture my attention. I like Kirsten's prickliness but she seemed to fall for Daniel out of the blue (which didn't in of itself fit with her character) and for no good reason. The only thing going for Daniel seemed to be that he was handsome. They didn't sparkle as a couple and the one sex scene was brief and not too grand. Perhaps GB felt constrained by having a vicar as a hero? Most of her heroes pretty enthusiastically endorse pre-marital sex whereas here we had to have a proposal and then could only anticipate the vows. Religious heroes are tough and not too many authors have done them justice [I'll take recommendations - I want to see this done well!] and I felt that Burrowes was a bit trapped by the constraints of the collar. That said, I didn't skim. It passed a few hours for me but not my normal level of enjoyment.

[Jen Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had high hopes for this romance. The hero is vicar who is challenged to suppress his desires in order to honor his calling. Daniel has a horrible wife from whom he is estranged. He would like nothing more than to cut her completely from his life, but a divorce –or even an annulment– would rob him of the vocation he holds most dear. He is trying to make a new life for himself without her, yet he will always be tied to her by the bonds of matrimony.

Daniel has every intention of living a chaste life, devoting himself entirely to his new flock. Then he meets Lady Kirsten. She speaks her mind, eschewing propriety for honesty. She is smart and candid and she actually seems to like him. It’s a heady mix, after the lies and rejection from his wife. They become fast friends and attraction blooms before Kirsten even realizes a Mrs. Brown exists. But she does exist, making anything more that friendship between Daniel and Kirsten, impossible.

So it seems like this would be a font of angst, sexual attraction and suppressed feelings. I love forbidden romances, but somehow, this fell flat for me. It’s too drawn out. There is not enough teeth gnashing and burning desire. It’s more like a sad shrug than a rage against circumstance. Our couple is bummed out, but no heated exchanges or stomach dropping sexual tension. Such a missed opportunity.

On top of that, the story is sadly predictable. There are no surprises. There are no particularly interesting secondary characters. Our core characters are ok, but they are somewhat superficial, because they are both too good to be true. Neither ever tries to tempt the other. They don’t really get angry. Even the sex is just ok. And the ending is extremely convenient. After all the build-up, it’s just so easy that I ended up shaking my head.

The book is not bad. It’s just slow. And I wanted more emotion, specifically some passion… some fire. Instead, it’s just lukewarm and a little trite.

Rating: C

*ARC provided by publisher

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love GB's writing style and I knew I was going to love Daniel's book. I had already fallen in love with him when I read part of his story in his sister's book, David: Lord of Honor. You really should read that book first so you can see just how evil his wife was in that book. So I was thrilled when I found out that Daniel was going to get a second chance at love and boy did he deserve it. I even loved Kristen for him because she was going to fight for him where he might not fight for himself. Wonderful couple. This can be read as a standalone though, Grace does a good job with Daniel's history it is just muted and not as in your face as it was with David's book. I can't wait though until we get Della's story.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel's True Desire by Grace Burrowes is a 2015 Sourcebooks Casablanca publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

It's always a pleasure to pick up a novel by Grace Burrowes. This one, however, was really, really, really good. ( I know, I say that every time, but I really mean it, every time)

As the story starts off we are introduced to Daniel, a Vicar, on his way to his new post. Upon arrival, he meets the most refreshing of ladies, Lady Kirsten Haddonfield. The two immediately forge a bond, each carrying burdens the other can relate to, but the trouble is, Daniel is married.

Now, I know what you are thinking. An extramarital affair is scandalous under normal circumstances, but a Vicar? Well, as it turns out, Daniel's wife is not all she presents herself to be, and they have been estranged for nearly a year. Still, the emotional affair between Kirsten and Daniel pushes the envelope just a little, and I felt Grace was taking a bit a risk with this scenario, but she does tread lightly, even if some actions by the characters may have raised a few eyebrows.

I loved getting a glimpse of the characters we have read about previously, the side story involving Daniel's ward, and the sweet romance that develops between Kirsten and Daniel, which leads them to uncover a ruthless and greedy scandal and gives them both a fresh path in life, as well as the fruition of dreams they never thought would come true.

This story is very well written, with the author delicately handling some prickly situations, although I did wonder if maybe the couple should have handled the situation in a more traditional way. Still, the sensual details are not gone into in explicit detail, and this is fitting, I think, for this particular story.

There are some tense moments and some surprising twist along the way, which kept me very involved in the story, and the deeper I delved into it the better it got. Everything you have come to expect from this author is here- humor, wit, sharp dialogue, emotional story lines, true love, and of course a wonderful and sweet happy ever after… so what's not to like?

5 stars

[Kimberly Rocha~ Book Obsessed Chicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Up until a few months ago, Vicar Daniel Banks, along with his difficult wife Olivia, had been raising his nephew as his son. His sister Letty was poorly used when she was younger, leaving her pregnant and without options at the time, but her recent marriage has given her the opportunity of reclaiming her son, if only letting it be known publicly that little Danny is her nephew, not her son. Around the time Daniel sends Danny to his beloved sister, Olivia, decides she needs to be away from her husband and ventures to visit family, or so she tells Daniel.
Daniel becomes the new Vicar at Haddonfield, but with reservations as to his vocation. Daily he fears his estranged wife will expose the lie of Danny being his son and ruin his life as well as Letty’s who has finally found the love of her life, who accepts her without reservation. When Kirsten Haddonfield walks into his vision, Daniel is taken for a loop. Their attraction is obvious, but his situation is impossible.
Kirsten has been hurt more than once in her outings in London society. Now her sister Della will be making her debut and Kirsten dreads appearing at outings where she will undoubtedly come into contact with those who have hurt her. Meeting Daniel has given Kirsten something to look forward to. There is no pretense in their banter. They are completely at ease in conversation, but Daniel still has his secrets that could come back to bite. Even with a large and loving family, Kirsten would seek the solitude of a simpler life, and her yearning for Daniel will cause upheaval in droves.
Daniel’s True Desire by Grace Burrowes is a wonderful story. Though the romance is light, the emotion has depth with the struggles both Daniel and Kirsten face. Daniel is such a good man with the intelligence and fortitude to overcome the troubles tossed his way. Kirsten is a bright and shining beacon who sees the good in everyone. She is confident and alluring and enjoys confusing Daniel. The colorful cast of characters adds to the fray and when all is said and done, life will change for all, for the better.

[Tin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received this ARC through Netgalley. Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and to Grace Burrowes for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.

* * *

Up to the age of 20, Daniel Banks had lived a golden life, fulfilling his and his father's lifelong dream for him of becoming a vicar, and then being assigned to a good parish. But, at the age of 20, Daniel Banks makes the decision to marry, despite his father's reservations, and that's when trouble starts for Daniel. His wife, Olivia, is everything a vicar's wife shouldn't be: cold, indifferent, materialistic, etc. -- but Daniel practices what he preaches and patiently bears his wife's venom and vitriol.

Daniel is now 30, and weary. He's weary of his vocation, which has, lately, become more a liability than an asset. He's weary of his wife's blackmail, threatening to expose Daniel's son, Danny's true birthright. But Daniel is giving it one last go -- and doors have opened for him to become the new vicar of Haddondale.

Kirsten Haddonfield is bracing herself: her sister, Della, is about to make her debut in the coming London Season, and Kirsten foresees all sorts of terrible things to happen: Della might hear whispers of the circumstances of her birth -- a fact that has already been acknowledged within the family, but has never been brought it out into society. More importantly, Kirsten is bracing herself to revisit her own past and the failed engagements that came from her stay in London. Kirsten hates London, but she must go for the sake of her sister. This winter is her chance to gather and store whatever strength and confidence she needs for the coming battle.

While it's true that opposites attract, it's also true that like recognizes like -- and it's an instant connection between our hero and heroine. There's just so much to love about the relationship between Kirsten and Daniel, and they know it, too -- unfortunately, Daniel is married. It stands as a great, unmovable obstacle that stands in the way of happiness.

"Are you happy, Mr. Banks?" she retorted. "You say I'm a grouch, meaning I deal in truth rather than appearances and gossip. What do you deal in?"

"Not gossip." Which left ... appearances? "You deal in honesty, my lady, but what of kindness? Has it no place in your scheme? Truth can wound, cripple even, and should be wielded with caution."

Olivia had taken it upon herself to bludgeon Danny with the unvarnished truth of his origins, for example.

...

"This business of honesty and kindness is not a philosophical debate to you, is it?" Lady Kirsten asked.

...

"Truth and kindness are not mere concepts to you either," Daniel said as the sleigh inched forward. "I like that about you. You do not mine a topic for clever remarks you can toss out in company. You embrace a matter with your intellect, and wring from it what truths or contradictions it has."
- loc 426

It's a great, unmovable obstacle that stands in the way of everything. Olivia continues to haunt Daniel with his threats to expose Dannny, Daniel's illegitimate nephew -- it looms above Daniel, like the Sword of Damocles, about to drop anytime. Daniel is also bracing himself for questions about why his wife isn't with him.

In between, Grace Burrowes intersperses slices of life in Haddondale -- of a vicarage in need of repair, of young boys needing guidance, education, and distraction, of one young boy needing some clarity and assurance as his whole life is upended by his mother's marriage. Danny's situation is very unique. He is actually Daniel's nephew, but, in order to protect him and his mother's reputation, Daniel and his wife publicly claimed Danny as their son. Danny has grown up calling Daniel "Papa" and the two have a wonderful bond. However, with Danny's mother's marriage (read: David: Lord of Honor ), Letty Banks has decided she wanted Danny back in her family -- leaving Daniel with a gaping hole in his heart. This is the other difficult situation in Daniel's life -- how could he fight his own sister for Danny? Whose happiness is of greatest importance? Is it Letty's? Is it Daniel's? Is it Danny's? And whose interests are served best by the current situation?

It really amazes me how Grace Burrowes is able to include so much of what goes on in a person's life. Her stories are never about characters in a vacuum, but characters in their milieu. It's wonderful how she contrasts the burdens with the blessings -- one magnifying the other, and vice-versa. It's all so comprehensive, but not overwhelmingly so. As the story progresses, Burrowes goes through a reflection of the different kinds of love: romantic love, the love between sisters, the love of a father to his son, the love of a husband and a wife, and the selfish love of Olivia Banks.

What keeps you reading (and finishing this book in one sitting) is the need to find out how the author would write her characters out of Daniel's situation: there's the easy way, and there's the hard way -- and there's the way Burrowes does it, that makes you exclaim, "Why didn't I think of that?" -- without giving anything away, I thought it was brilliant how she addressed Daniel and Kirsten's problem.

Burrowes continues to endear the Haddonfield Family to her readers -- they rival the Windhams in complicated family history, and also rival them in affection and kinship. The author has characters crossing over from her Lonely Lords series, which I haven't read. (I have promised myself, however, that I will find time to read the 12 books in the series.)

Daniel's True Desire is Book 2 in Grace Burrowes's True Gentlemen series and will be released tomorrow, November 3, 2015.

[Maria Almaguer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grace Burrowes’ latest historical, book two in her True Gentlemen series, is more a novel of manners than a true romance. Think more Mansfield Park than Pride and Prejudice.

It’s a very good story, as are all her books, but the romance is rather staid and bland. It’s apt and proper for a story about a clergyman.

I have a huge problem with infidelity, even if Daniel Banks’ wife Olivia is a shrew. So the idea of secondary characters in the novel encouraging a discreet affair between Daniel and Kirsten bothers me. I think this has more to do with my own place in life right now–I’m going through a divorce–because it is a good book.

Kirsten, the sister of Nicholas, the earl of Bellefonte, is so outspoken for a lady of her time, surprising this reader and that Daniel, a man of the cloth, is attracted to her. She takes many liberties with Daniel–calling him by his Christian name, impulsively kissing him–and he kind of just helplessly goes along with it.

For my full review on my historical and erotic review blog: http://bit.ly/1LKKnnK

[Blodeuedd Finland · Rating 3 out of 5]

At first I was scared most of the book would go by without anyone knowing he was married. Phew, it did not. The truth was out early on.

Have I ever read about a vicar? I really do not know. And yes I mostly thought about Mr Collins *shudders* I tried to imagine a hottie instead. A vicar is also a tricky hero cos you never know it he would be all God and all that. But he was not. He really loved his job, but that was all. Oh right, he also has separated from his horrible wife who is living with someone else. A real shrew. But if he divorces her he can not be a priest anymore.

Which brings is to Lady Kristen. Sweet, some failed love stories behind her and she is all about the new hottie vicar. Poor gal can not even control herself. Seriously, she really fancies the guy, and even though she realises he can never be free, she still fancies him (and he her).

But obviously things are not that easy. He is married after all....so yes there will be some drama before everyone lives happily ever after.

I enjoyed it. Burrowes writes these cute romances where people actually talk a lot.

Narrator James Langton
This is my third book by him and I like him. I like his accent when he read these. His female voices can be a bit, well he is a man after all. And his male voices can be a bit big. But they all blend together perfectly in the end. Honestly how could I ever listen to a Burrowes book if he did not read it. I had to google him, he is actually from England, so no wonder he does it splendidly.

[Jessica Grogan · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF. It's just taking way too long to get going and I don't have the patience for it. I have way too many other books waiting for me to read to continue something I'm not enjoying.

[Ella Gai · Rating 3 out of 5]

RECENSIONE A CURA DI CHIARA per il blog ELLAGAI.COM



Ogni volta che finisco un libro mi piace cercare di racchiuderlo con degli aggettivi: il libro di Grace Burrowes, Il vero desiderio, secondo me può essere racchiuso con l’aggettivo romantico. Essendo un romanzo storico troviamo dei personaggi di altri tempi e questo è un cambiamento rispetto ai romanzi rosa che siamo abituate a leggere, non c’è nessun cattivo ragazzo o Dio del sesso ad attenderci, ma Daniel, un vicario che è combattuto per la strada scelta in tema di fede, per le scelte fatte a livello di relazioni e per un amore che non può vivere.


Viene allontanato dalla sua Chiesa per andare in villaggio, lontano dalle vicissitudini che hanno destabilizzato la sua vita da uomo e da prete.
Troverà al suo arrivo una ragazza, Kirsten, che è tutto tranne l’aristocratica che dovrebbe essere: bella, forte, selvaggia e contro ogni tipo di stereotipo e dogma imposto. Kirsten verrà subito colpita da Daniel, non solo per la sua bellezza ma anche per tratti caratteriali che difficilmente si possono trovare in un uomo: umiltà, generosità, amore incondizionato e anche un po’ di solitudine. La stessa solitudine che accompagna da sempre Kirsten. Sulla carta una coppia formata da un'aristocratica e un prete di certo non è consigliabile, ma al cuore e alla forza dell’amore non si può comandare, nessuna imposizione può reggere.

“Non voglio indurti a peccare”
“Non indurmi a peccare, tesoro. Inducimi ad amare”
Ma sappiamo bene che il destino non sempre è pronto a darci amore quando noi siamo pronte a riceverlo: c’è un grande ostacolo che impedisce a Daniel di amare Kirsten e i suoi valori gli imporranno di rimanere fermo sulle proprie posizioni. Così Kirsten e Daniel rimarranno in un limbo, un limbo fatto di amicizia e piccoli gesti di rispetto, devozione e amore fin quando la Provvidenza non andrà in loro aiuto e riuscirà a mettere insieme i nostri due protagonisti dal cuore grande, ma le sorprese non saranno finite lì.

“Il modo in cui il signor Banks inarcò le sue sopracciglia, stava a indicare che lo aveva tentato.
Kirsten avrebbe preferito tentarlo con un bacio, così si alzò in punta di piedi e gli diede un bacio sulla guancia.
L’ho baciato. E avrebbe voluto farlo di nuovo”.
Tra i giochi del destino, bambini che non sono propri di sangue ma lo sono per i valori insegnati, amore che nasce come un fiore in pieno inverno, l’autrice ci porterà in questa storia dalle note delicate e romantiche che vi terrà incollate pagina dopo pagina perché si sa che il principe azzurro ha il suo fascino, anche se porta una veste nera da prete.

Chiara

[Kaethe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet without being cloying. Plus scenes. I love schemes. Also, Burrowes has a nice range in vicars.

Library copy

[JG · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was ❤️❤️❤️! I can't really express how much enjoyment I have derived from this book. Like always Grace Burrowes has managed to craft a story wherein she gives multidimensional characters situations that appears to have no obvious solutions but in fact has an almost brilliant ending that would escape a reader despite the subtle clues. Daniel's True Desire has fantastic layered characters in Daniel and Kristen. These two have suffered a lot, mostly with regards to their self esteem. Their blossoming romance was quite bittersweet but it doesn't feel manufactured like most romances with self sacrificing plots. Daniel's True Desire probably has a tone more in keeping with an Austenlike regency romance but with the marvelous and unique twist that Grace Burrowes always manages to create. Daniel maybe a nice guy that finished last but in his own book he definitely shined as a beta hero.

*True Gentlemen series features heroes that were not considered hero material in previous books in other Grace Burrowes' series but they truly shine now*

*Daniel's True Desire features previous characters in Grace Burrowes Lonely Lords Series, specifically in books Nicholas and David but can definitely be read as a standalone*

*ARC provided by the publisher thru NetGalley*

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vikki’s Musings

I have been a huge fan of Grace Burrowes ever since I found her first book, The Heir. When I was offered a chance to read and review Daniel’s True Desire by the publisher, I quickly agreed. This book has all the trademarks I know I can expect from Ms. Burrowes. She writes of family ties and adds deep emotion to her characters. Her books are always character driven.

I truly loved Daniel’s character. He is loyal, honorable and a protector. Then to add to his over all appeal, he’s tall and handsome. His tender regard for Lady Kirsten touched my heart. I felt his pain at the betrayal and emotional abuse he had suffered from his estranged wife’s conniving machinations, so glad she gets what she deserves.

Lady Kirsten’s character grew on me as the story unfolded, and by the end of the book, I liked her a great deal. While she could be cantankerous at times, under her façade, she has a heart of gold. I loved how Daniel softened her tough shield.

If you enjoy family sagas, then you will love Daniel’s True Desire, a title that suits this book perfectly, by the way. I loved getting to read of the other members of the Haddonfield family. I do recommend this enjoyable read. Happy reading!

[MsChris1161 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another wonderful story by Grace Burrowes. DANIEL'S TRUE DESIRE, the second book in the True Gentlemen series brings us back to the community of Haddondale and the family of the Earl of Haddonfield. This time the match-up is his sister, Kirsten, and the new Vicar, Daniel Banks.

The handsome and kind new Vicar comes with secrets and a broken heart. His situation strikes accord with the outspoken and secretly broken Lady Kirsten Haddonfield. They quickly develop a bond of friendship. Together they take on the unruly boys from the local families which brings about healing and admiration between the two. A romance grows despite the impossibilities. This is a story of sacrifice, integrity, virtue, kindness, and sincere and honest love, both romantic and familial. The Reverend Banks is indeed a true gentleman, yet a man of fierce devotion to the beliefs he's passionate about. And Kirsten, a true Lady. Daniel's True Desire was delightful to read and a lovely addition to Ms Burrowes' newest series. 4.5 stars.

~Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.

[Cardyn Brooks]

No author blends the many layers of emotional intimacy between and among spouses, parents, siblings, children, and neighbors with the delicacy that G.B. does. That always satisfies.

[Kathy Heare Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE VICTOR AND THE SPINSTER

The second book in the True Gentlemen series will read well as a stand-alone. Once again, Grace Burrowes spins an intriguing tale and brings two people together.

I won a copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.

[Emmaali · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ho fatto una gran fatica a finire questo libro nonostante la storia non fosse poi così male ma purtroppo lo stile di questa scrittrice proprio non mi convince, non riesco ad appassionarmi alle sue storie. Certe volte mi sembra di leggere un libro scritto centinaia di anni fa, ma se poi faccio il confronto con un libro scritto duecento anni fa, tipo Jane Eyre che io adoro, vedo che è proprio la mano dell’autrice che non mi piace. Peccato...

[BarbarAzza Brioscina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Confermo la serie è molto carina . Molto .
Un parroco , una donna irriverente , una scuola , una moglie di troppo .
Strutturato , onesto , diretto e mi piace la sottotrama d'amore della storia secondaria .

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved that there was so much more to this than just the main relationship. Grace Burrowes writes lovely characters with complicated problems, and I appreciate that the honesty and understanding between the leads means they’re facing those problems together rather than keeping secrets and trying to solve things alone. In this story, besides the complication of Daniel’s estranged wife, there are the issues involving his son Danny and the unexpected joys and challenges of tutoring the local boys. These types of plots, along with the running theme of marrying a family as well as an individual, are the reasons Grace Burrowes is one of my favorites.

I still find the instantaneous, deep mutual understanding of the lead characters a bit too perfect. I don’t expect romances to be super realistic, but I do have personal limits that determine what distracts me from full immersion in the story. The immediate empathy of Daniel and Kirsten was distracting (as was the weird sleep-masturbating scene) but it didn’t keep me from rooting for them and thoroughly enjoying the book.

It’s a bit daunting, when I look at how many characters with overlapping stories in her different series have their own books. I’ve got a lot of reading ahead of me. But it’s nice that I don’t have to read them in any particular order. I think I’ll be flitting around these series for quite some time, knowing that I can rely on Burrowes to tell sweet, compassionate love stories.

[Ilze · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked this one a lot. The main characters were lovely people, their romance was believable and pretty hot. Lots of humour and some great dialogue.

A couple of strange aspects:
- the heroine's name Kirsten would be highly unlikely as an English gentlewoman's name in the early 19th century (it is actually a Scandinavian name related to the English name Christine)
- the name Blumenthal (the name of one of the families in the story) is almost impossible to believe as an English country squire's family name in the early 19th century - it's actually a German-Jewish name meaning "valley of flowers".

Aside from one completely unnecessary and hard-to-believe miracle (the setup for the "miracle" is even harder to believe) the plot works really well, and the final resolution of Daniel's problem - as a vicar he cannot be involved in a marital scandal involving divorce, but without a divorce he can't marry Kirsten - is ingenious and very nicely done.

I really enjoyed the sections with the "scholars" - a group of small boys, including Daniel's nephew Danny, that the hero Daniel teaches and looks after when they're boarding in his house. On the surface they look like they're peripheral to main plot, but actually they are just as important to the plot and the character development of Daniel and Kirsten as the romance itself. The boys were very believable as characters (I've raised several of my own, so I know a bit about this aspect) and their interactions were funny and delightful.

[SidneyKay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Huzzah!

This is my first experience with Grace Burrowes. Well, that's not true; I started one earlier
this year and set it aside. After reading this one, I thought about glomming Ms. Burrowes. I went to her website and she has about a gazillion books, so I'm not going to be glomming her any time soon. I liked her writing style enough to go back and pick up the one I sat aside though. If you happen to visit Ms. Burrowes website you will notice that most of her books are connected in one way or another and she is one of those authors who have created pedigree charts of her characters. It was rather intimidating.

Daniels True Desires is a different type of romance book. At least for me it was. I became engrossed in the story and about half way through I figured out why. For me it was a little reminiscent of older writing similar to Little Women or Little Men. Yes, there was romance in Daniels True Desires but there seemed to be more than just that. This book may be classified as a romance, but it seemed to be a story of a lot of people, not just two. In this case it was a refreshing change. Ms. Burrows did a fine job of fleshing out the other characters in her story. I learned to care about not only the Reverend Daniel Banks and Lady Kirsten but a number the supporting cast. Those supporting cast were more than just supporting, they were an integral part of some pretty satisfying storytelling.

Evidently in some previous stories, both Daniel and Kirsten have been introduced (remember the gazillion connected stories I found at her website?) Anyway, this is the plot line: Daniel is the new minister of Haddondale. He has left behind his son, Danny, who is not really his son but the illegitimate son of Daniel's sister, Letty. Letty's story is in another book. Also left behind is Daniel's horrible, conniving wife, Olivia. So our hero has a wife hiding in the countryside somewhere. If you are worried about any infidelity, don't be - Ms. Burrowes takes us down an interesting path that shouldn't trigger anyone’s hot button. Daniel is a really nice guy (at last a nice guy.) There were times when I thought he might have been just a little too astute, too insightful, almost Q-like, but I ended up not minding too much.

Then we have Kirsten. Kirsten is ready to be everyone’s favorite doddering aunt. She doesn't want to marry, she has convinced herself that she will be happy going from household to household bouncing her siblings children on her knees. Besides that, she is one of those heroines who cannot have babies. In her case those words came from a doctor, so it's not something she came up with herself. Then she meets Daniel and she is attracted to him right away. The attraction is mutual, but Daniel will not act on it because he is already married. So they form a friendship and of course fall in love. Then things happen in the form of Olivia. I'm not telling you what those things were, except it was horrifyingly fascinating.

Then there are the "rotten boys." Daniel decides to teach a group of boys whose ages appear to be around eight, nine or so. All of these boys are well-developed, wonderful characters. Soon joining this group of boys is Danny, who runs away from Letty. I can't tell you how much I loved these boys, especially Danny. All of the interaction between them and Daniel and Kirsten and, well, everyone else in the story was just wonderful.

Overall, this was a great book. The people in the story were drawn so well, I found myself cheering them on. While the HEA may have been a little over the top as far as the solution, the ending/epilogue was just delightful. I intend to keep Ms. Burrowes on my radar from now on and have started to read the one I put aside: The Captive. I wish I had started reading her a little sooner, 'cause I don't think I can glom a gazillion books.

KaysBlog

[Susan Gorman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vicar Daniel Banks had appeared as a secondary character in several of author Grace Burrowes books. Readers adored the character and asked for his story. I will admit—I wasn’t one of them. I didn’t view Daniel as a hero; he’s a nice man going through a tough personal and professional time—but a hero?? I had a hard time imagining brusque and impatient Lady Kirsten married to a parish vicar. Wait a minute…Daniel Banks is married. How could my heroine have a “happily ever after” with a married man? What was Grace Burrowes thinking??

Daniel's True Desire is the second book In the True Gentlemen series by Grace Burrowes. The novel seamlessly blends the opposites attract and the second chance romantic themes. Kirsten doesn't view Daniel as an impoverished 'has been" vicar whose wife left him. She sees him as an intelligent, kind, patient man who truly enjoys teaching the local boys. Daniel looks past Kirsten's brusque demeanor. He sees a beautiful, intelligent woman whose laughter and kisses makes him happy. He wonders why she has never married. Daniel and Kirsten are attracted to each other but Daniel is married.

Both character's faith, love and commitment to each other and to their families are tested during the course of the well-paced novel. The author carefully focuses on Daniel and Kirsten's friendship and the challenges of teaching the "rotten boys". Daniel is an honorable man who has taken vows with his wife and the church and will not break them. He will not cross the line and commit adultery. Daniel receives some news that changes his life. Will his friendship with Lady Kirsten change? Loved the scenes where Daniel, Kirsten and Susannah meet with each boy's parents, especially when Kirsten and Susannah slyly suggest that the parents send weekly food baskets to their sons. The banter between the sisters and the parents was cleverly written and very funny. And I loved it when the toads invaded the classroom! My favorite secondary plot involved Daniel and one of his students Matthias. Matthias had a difficult time with his classes and horseback lessons. He listened and understood his classroom lessons but could not pass a written exam and Matthias lacked confidence riding his pony. The author cleverly placed several clues throughout the novel regarding Matthias' difficulties. I enjoyed how this piece of the story played out.

The conclusion to the novel has a few surprises for Lady Kirsten and Vicar Banks. Daniel's late father provided him with a solution to his problem. Daniel needed to take time and sort through his father's belongings to understand how to move forward. Together Daniel and Kirsten face conflict and two well written villains in the last few chapters of the novel. The ending of this character driven novel was perfectly written for this couple. Grace Burrowes crafts a fabulous romance between Daniel and Kirsten and she convinced me that Daniel is a hero an honorable, kind hero to Lady Kirsten, his family and students.

[Sharon Tyler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Daniel's True Desire is the second book in the True Gentlemen series by Grace Burrowes. Each of these books can stand on their own, but reading them in order does give a better understanding of the cast of characters.

Daniel Banks is a man of the cloth whose vocation is the last comfort he has left–and even his churchman’s collar is beginning to feel like a noose. In an attempt to start his life over, Daniel accepts the post of vicar in Haddondale, a position supported by the Earl of Haddonfield. There Daniel meets Lady Kirsten Haddonfield, to whom life has also dealt multiple unkind blows. Daniel’s interest is piqued by Kirsten’s unsentimental attitude toward her misfortunes, and by the kind-heartedness the lady keeps well hidden. Kirsten is much taken with Mr. Banks and his genuine compassion for others, despite his own troubles. When Providence intervenes, and Daniel and Kirsten can become engaged, their happiness seems complete, although every garden has at least one nasty, sly, determined serpent.

Daniel's True Desire is a story that is very much about equally wounded hearts and good natured individuals finding each other and helping each other heal. Daniel has not had a perfect life, and despite being a man of the cloth has many secrets and a failed marriage and child he loves completely. Everything is very complicated, but Daniel is more worried about the well being of others than anything for himself. Kirsten has have zero luck in love, and is content to help her family and live her life as it stands. Neither is looking for love, and as usually that is when love strikes hardest. I liked both characters, but at times they were both almost too perfect to believe. Thankfully, they each had their moments that showed their flaws and humanity they kept them from staying too perfect. I did not love this book as much as I had hoped, but I still greatly enjoyed it and continue to look forward to Burrowes' next book.

Daniel's True Desire is a solid follow up to Tremaines True Love. I do not think it was quite as good as the first book in the series, but it was still an entertaining read. Fans of the author will definitely want to read the book, and anyone that enjoyed the first book in this series will enjoy this one as well.

[Heidi Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never really thought much about historical romance, but I cannot get enough of this series! The characters, the story lines, all of it is done so very well by this author. I am immediately drawn in by the prose, the strength in the characters, the setting, the slowly unfurling love stories. This story of Lady Kirsten is quite different from the last book. Lady Kirsten is unlike her other sisters, much to the chagrin of the Earl of Bellefonte, Nicholas Haddonfield. She is intelligent, sharp tongued, and a grouch. But when the new vicar, Daniel Banks, comes to town, she finds herself happy around him. He has not had any easy go of things. His sister, Letty, had a child out of wedlock. He was raising Danny with his wife, Olivia. But Olivia is not a good person and tried blackmailing Letty. She was sent away and Daniel had to find a new post so word wouldn't get out. Daniel is estranged from her, but he cannot divorce her or he couldn't be a part of the church anymore. He finds himself falling for Lady Kirsten, but nothing can come of it because of his marriage. When things happen that change those circumstances, all is not what it seems. There are bad things in motion that might destroy everything, including Danny. Can Lady Kirsten and Daniel ever find happiness? Will Daniel and Danny have to stay apart? What about Letty and the fact that Danny is not happy living with his mother, yet is told to call her something else? Will Olivia succeed in destroying Daniel though her evil plans? This is a great series surrounding the Earl of Bellefonte and I cannot wait for the next book!

[Leone (She Reads too Much Romance) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yet again Burrowes has created a genuinely alluring historical novel however the presences of a strong romantic book is absent. The reason I continue to return to Burrowes as an author is the fact that her historical novels are enriched with the details of the era that she has featured within the backdrop of the plot. However I do wish the romances within these books were at least present with absolute certainty as that is my only fault with this book.

As for the positives I deeply enjoyed this story. I thought that Daniel and Kirsten both had a deep attraction that warmed my soul and made me savor this book that much more. Daniel's character was determined to start over within his life and I admired his determination as he wasn't about to let anything or anyone stand in his way, until he meets Kirsten. Kirsten character was certainly my favorite. Together she and Daniel only seemed to better the opposite person.

The plot was equally interested as the chemistry. I liked how easily the plot flowed throughout the story without the author trying too hard to persuade me in one direction or another. There were hints of mystery buried within the pages of the book and I think that both Daniel and Kirsten had to really push in order to have their own HEA ending.

-Copyright of this review belong to Night Owl Reviews. To read more of this review please click on the link that has been provided.
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[eyes.2c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfectly splendid!

*Ten stars* for this latest True Gentleman episode. What a pleasure this latest of Grace Burrowes' novel is--fascinating, intelligent and complex.
'True Desire' is a gem! Daniel Banks is all that one could wish for. A gorgeous man, inside and out--good, true and desirable. He's been well and truly deceived by his wife who has taken herself out of his life. She is a murky, vain, grasping, self-centred woman, whose actions reflect this. Being separated is not the best recommendation for a country vicar, hence his move to Haddondale and a living under the aegis of the Earl of Bellefonte.
Daniel is empathetic and honourable. He is a far cry from many of the vicars we come across in novels. This is a man who understands people out of the depths of his own humanness. Lady Kirsten Haddondale recognizes this about him.
Kirsten has been protected by her family. They understand some of her challenges, not all. They do however want to support her in her various pursuits and interests. The new vicar becomes one such interest
Daniel seems to see right into her heart. He understands who she is.
How I loved Daniel's straightforwardness, his integrity.
His dealings with his loveable 'rotten' boys are simple, well thought out and deceptively intuitive.
Notes of sunshine surround this story, despite the tension--it enlivens the soul and tackles the vagaries of life with zest.

A NetGalley ARC